Higher Education Learners Honoured at NSCG's 2026 Graduation Ceremony

Sean Wright: HND Computing

Sean has been a student at NSCG for the past four years and following the successful completion of his Level 3 Esports course, he made the decision to change direction and study the HNC/D in Computing.

Overcoming a challenging first year on the HNC programme due to personal circumstances and health issues, Sean's year on the Level 5 HND has been truly transformational. Sean has demonstrated outstanding progress across all aspects of his studies, reflecting remarkable academic achievement as well as significant personal growth.

Despite continuing to face periods of illness and other challenging circumstances, Sean has shown exceptional resilience, determination and maturity in his approach to learning. His commitment to improving his performance has resulted in a substantial increase in both engagement and attainment, with his grades improving significantly throughout the year. This progress is a testament not only to his ability, but also to his strong work ethic, perseverance and positive attitude to getting the best grades possible.

Olivia Malbon: HND Performing Arts

Olivia has demonstrated outstanding commitment throughout her studies, achieving distinctions across all units, an incredible accomplishment that reflects both her natural ability and her determination to succeed. Even more impressively, she has maintained excellent attendance, showing dedication and passion for her craft throughout her time at NSCG as a HE student.

Since starting on the HNC programme, Liv has been a true asset to the group. She has consistently brought positivity and professionalism to every class, rehearsal, and performance and creates an inspiring environment for everyone around her.

Olivia always approaches every lesson, rehearsal and performance with a highly professional and mature attitude to learning. She has embodied the values of NSCG Performing Arts through her hard work, positive mindset, and willingness to continually challenge herself both creatively and technically and she is an exceptional performer with exquisite stage presence. Her theoretical and written work is equally as impressive, consistently above and beyond in every task set and she is always striving for excellence.

Olivia is also a hugely respected member of both her group and all dancers at the NSCG Performing Arts Centre, leading my example and most importantly, Olivia has shown that true success comes not only from talent, but from discipline, resilience, kindness, and commitment and we wish her every success moving forward to a 'top-up degree' and a career in dance.  

Sam Hinks: HND Engineering

Sam has been a dedicated student at NSCG since the age of 16, and has demonstrated exceptional commitment and progression throughout his academic journey. Joining us to begin his Level 3 studies, he then progressed to the HNC and has now completed his HND, consistently achieving high standards at every stage.

Sam has consistently gone above and beyond expectations, often attending college outside of his scheduled timetable to ensure his work met the highest possible standards. His ability to think critically, provide insightful contributions, and develop innovative alternative solutions has greatly impressed the lecturing team and set him apart from his peers.

Alongside completing his HE qualifications, Sam secured full-time employment with Wrekin Pneumatics, demonstrating an impressive ability to balance professional responsibilities with the demands of his academic studies. His determination, focus and strong work ethic have been evident throughout his time at college which is bound to set him up for a successful career in engineering. What has made Sam particularly memorable is not only the quality of his work, but also the genuine dedication, enthusiasm, and professionalism he has brought to the course every day. He has been a pleasure to teach and has earned the respect of both staff and fellow students.

Sam is now planning the next stage of his career as he travels to Australia to pursue engineering opportunities. 

George Kirby: HNC Engineering

Since joining the College in 2022, George has consistently demonstrated exceptional commitment, professionalism, and academic excellence throughout his engineering studies. Progressing successfully from his Level 3 qualification into his Level 4 Higher National Certificate (HNC), he has distinguished himself as an outstanding student whose dedication and enthusiasm have made a lasting impression on both staff and peers.

Throughout his HNC programme, George has consistently produced work of an exceptionally high standard, approaching every challenge with determination, attention to detail, and a genuine passion for engineering. His commitment to learning and continuous improvement has enabled him to achieve excellent results while developing the skills and knowledge required for a successful career in the industry.

Alongside his academic achievements, George has excelled in his role as an apprentice with GE. His impressive development within the company has seen him progress to undertaking work on an international level, demonstrating both technical competence and professional maturity beyond expectations. His outstanding contribution was further recognised when he was awarded Apprentice of the Year, highlighting the significant impact he has made within his organisation.

George’s hard work and dedication have culminated in the achievement of a well-deserved Distinction in his HNC. He has been an exemplary student and an excellent ambassador for both the College and GE. With his talent, determination, and strong work ethic, there is no doubt that he has a bright future ahead, and we look forward to seeing his continued success in the engineering industry.

Sarah Hill: Foundation Degree in Education (Awarded by University of Staffordshire)

Sarah is an exceptionally deserving recipient of this award as she is an outstanding student. Throughout her studies, she has demonstrated unwavering commitment, resilience, and determination, consistently producing work of an excellent standard. Even during an incredibly difficult period while her father was undergoing extensive surgery in hospital, she remained fully dedicated to her education, never allowing personal challenges to affect her focus or positive attitude. Her punctuality and excellent attendance reflect the professionalism and maturity she brings to every aspect of her university life, making her a true inspiration to both staff and fellow students.

Her ambition to become a primary school teacher, specialising in supporting children with SEND, perfectly reflects her compassionate and caring nature. Alongside her studies, she already works as a dedicated teaching assistant, where her patience, empathy, and enthusiasm shine through daily. She has a natural ability to encourage and support others, and it is clear that she will make a profound difference in the lives of the children she works with in the future. Her commitment to helping young people overcome barriers is deeply personal and rooted in her own experiences.

Born with a stammer, she faced significant challenges throughout her school years and often struggled to find her voice despite ongoing speech and language therapy support. At the age of 15, she undertook an intensive programme that proved life-changing, giving her the confidence to speak openly and believe in herself. Today, she contributes thoughtfully and confidently in every lesson, and other students greatly admire her courage and determination. Her journey is one of perseverance, strength, and transformation, and she serves as a powerful role model to everyone around her. 

Lidia Kuruvilla: HNC Health Professions for England

Lidia is a highly positive, caring, and personable individual who approaches everything she does with enthusiasm and dedication. Throughout her Level 4 studies, she has consistently demonstrated a strong commitment to her learning, working diligently to achieve the highest standards and continually seeking opportunities to improve and develop her skills.

Having joined NSCG from St John Fisher Catholic College, where she studied A Levels, Lidia had already identified her ambition to pursue Neuroscience and Psychology at university. Recognising that the Level 4 Health and Social Care programme at Newcastle College would provide valuable work placement opportunities and support the development of the academic skills required for higher education, she chose this pathway to strengthen her progression towards her career goals.

Lidia has made exceptional progress throughout the course. She settled quickly into college life and has become a role model for her peers, offering encouragement and support to those around her. She has chosen to take a year to gain further practical experience before applying to university, demonstrating maturity, foresight, and a clear commitment to her future aspirations.

Alongside her studies, Lidia has successfully balanced employment in a mental health support role. This experience has enhanced her understanding of the ways in which acute illness can affect individuals’ functioning and behaviour, while further developing her empathy, professionalism, and interpersonal skills. Lidia’s natural compassion, strong work ethic, and unwavering commitment to both her studies and the people around her make her a truly deserving candidate for this award. 

James Thompson: HND Public Services

James has demonstrated outstanding commitment achieving 100% attendance across the year. James travels from Stafford each day and is always first in the classroom and last to leave each day. James started his NSCG journey back in 2020, where he enrolled on a Level 1 Diploma in Vehicle Fitting, progressing on to complete Level 2 and Level 3 qualifications in Uniformed Protective Services at Stafford College. James then joined us at Newcastle for the HNC in Public Services and has now completed his HND. James has always demonstrated outstanding dedication to his studies with a minimum of 97% attendance achieved every year for his six years with us; an outstanding achievement. 

Despite facing some challenges, James have shown quiet determination and resilience in all he does. Over time, James has made significant progress, particularly in building his confidence and developing positive social skills. James has gone from very little communication with his peers to working effectively with them to plan and execute a recent trip to New York where James helped to navigate the staff and students to and from key landmarks in the city.

Alongside managing his own learning challenges, James have generously given his time as a course rep and Student Mentor, offering support and encouragement to others across the college community. His growth has been a pleasure to witness, and James should feel proud of how far he have come. This achievement reflects not only his dedication, but also his courage in continuing to engage and succeed in his education journey. 

James has recently secured a place for a Level 6 top up degree at University where he feels ready to face the challenge of gaining a full Honours degree. We wish James every success in his future. 

Isla McFadzean: HND Digital Content Creation

Isla has been a consistently motivated, dedicated, and passionate member of her year group. She has demonstrated a really high level of skill across all areas of the course, and regularly goes above and beyond in both her assignment work and her own self-directed projects. Alongside her studies, she has also worked with a range of self-negotiated freelance clients, showing great initiative and professionalism and a focus to gain as many industry skills as possible.

Her work is always strong, with clear technical ability and she stands out for with her passion for creativity and  visual style. Isla approaches everything in a professional way and has excellent personal and communication skills, making her a valued and reliable part of any team.

During her time on the HNC/D, she has shown a real commitment to learning and is always pushing herself to improve and develop her technical skills. Isla sets high standards for herself and consistently produces excellent work, while also building valuable professional relationships that will support her going forward.

Noted for being kind, focused, professional and driven, her drive for excellence coupled with a distinct approach to learning will stand her in good stead for a successful career in the creative sector.

Finn Brown: HND Digital Content Creation

From the start, Finn has stood out for the level of enthusiasm he brings to his work. Whether in taught sessions or on independent projects, he approaches everything with genuine interest and a strong creative drive. This year in particular, with the move to the IoT and the increased focus on live briefs, events, and external client work including projects with Siemens, the Department for education and the High Sheriff of Stafford, Finn has embraced every opportunity available to him. Always reliable when it comes to stepping up, getting involved, and making things happen he, has been a valuable part of his cohort.

Creatively, Finn continues to develop a strong and well-rounded skill set, producing work that shows both technical confidence and a thoughtful visual approach. He’s not afraid to challenge himself and is always looking to push his ideas further. What really stands out is his attitude to learning. Finn is proactive, self-motivated, and genuinely committed to improving his craft. He takes pride in his work, sets himself high standards, and has gained valuable experience to help build a solid foundation for his future career in this sector.

On a personal level, Finn has been a positive and supportive presence within the group. He’s approachable, hardworking, and professional in the way he carries himself, making him a great person to work alongside.