We celebrated our annual Graduation ceremony returned to Nottingham’s iconic Albert Hall. The event brought together nearly 500 attendees, including graduates, their tutors, and distinguished guests, to celebrate academic achievement and success.
The ceremony was attended by Principal and Chief Executive, Janet Smith, alongside members of the Leadership Team and Governors. Special guests included the Lord Mayor of Nottingham, Councillor Patience Ifediora; Chairman of Nottinghamshire County Council, Councillor Jan Goold and the Chairman’s Consort, Ken Goold; Sarah Speight from Nottingham Trent University; Ken Harris from The Open University; and Sally Dodsley from Pearson.
The event commenced with a formal procession led by Janet Smith, who expressed her pride in the graduates’ accomplishments. She commented:
"It was an absolute privilege to lead this year’s Graduation ceremony and celebrate the incredible achievements of our students," said Janet Smith, Nottingham College Principal/CEO.
“I’m so proud of our university-level provision at Nottingham College. We exist to ensure that higher education has a wide and diverse reach, enabling all who choose an academic path, to do so. Colleges like ours play a vital role as inclusive providers of higher education, giving everyone the opportunity to succeed. Today’s celebration is a true testament to that mission, and I wish our graduates - who have worked so hard to reach this point - every success as they take their next steps.”
2025 Graduate of the Year for Outstanding Achievement was awarded to Lizzie Elsom, who celebrated the occasion with her three-year-old daughter Sofia. She said:
“After having my daughter, I became very unwell and spent a lot of time in and out of hospital. That experience inspired me to join the college and pursue my passion for art. My teacher was incredible – she’s the reason I’ve decided to follow a career in teaching. I also want to show my daughter that with the right mindset, you can achieve anything. Graduating and receiving this award feels very special.”
Liam Newton, who completed a Foundation Degree in Hospitality and Visitor Economy Management, has been working in the healthcare sector but has always dreamed of running his own hotel. He was awarded the Faculty Prize for Outstanding Achievement and was also Highly Commended in the Graduate of the Year category.
He said: “Being recognised with this award is such an honour. It means a lot to know my tutors appreciate the hard work I’ve put in over the past three years. You’re never too old to return to education – as long as you’re willing to put in the effort.
“I felt like I’d gone as far as I could in my current role, but now, with a degree behind me, I can see how much faster I can progress towards my goals.”
