Some of the county’s future industry stars were honoured at NCC on Monday night at the College’s first ever graduation ceremony.
The traditional ceremony took place after the launch of the exciting new University Centre at NCC which will give learners the chance to gain a University-level qualification locally, flexibly and affordably – in a bid to fast-track their career and increase their earning potential.
Undergraduate courses beginning in February include Business Studies HNC/D, Computing and Systems Development HNC/D, Engineering Manufacturing/Electrical/Maintenance HNC/D and Sport HNC/D. As part of the College’s new offer, NCC can help learners gain a nationally recognised qualification, even if they have other work and personal commitments.
Approximately 45 graduates dressed in caps and gowns and wearing broad smiles who have already taken that opportunity with NCC were recognised on Monday. They have successfully completed their respective PGCE, Cert Ed and Foundation Degree in Learning Support qualifications through the University of Huddersfield.
Students who achieved a HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering and Manufacturing Engineering, also received their honours in front of representatives from the College and from Universities.
Dignitaries and VIPs also present on Monday’s night of celebration included governors, employers, the Mayor and Mayoress of Pendle, local headteachers and representatives from the University of Cumbria.
They were treated to a canapé and fizz reception, before a procession with the students passing the impressive £2 million Engineering facilities at NCC. Launched in January 2016, the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership (LEP) invested £1.4m into the facilities which include a unique subsonic wind tunnel and fully equipped workshops with the latest technology, software and machinery.
Following the glittering graduation ceremony, which included a live performance from internationally-renowned big band swing singer and former NCC student Russell Shaun, the graduates shared the special moment together by throwing their caps into the air with delight in time-honoured tradition.
Principal of Nelson and Colne College, Amanda Melton, said: “Monday night’s ceremony was a wonderful occasion and it was brilliant to see the joy on the faces of all the graduates who have worked so hard to achieve their honours. Congratulations to all of them!
“I was also immensely proud to launch our University Centre. A great deal of effort has gone into the development of our Higher Education offer, so to see it come to fruition is thrilling.
“Our greatest wish in this University Centre launch is to provide students with life-changing opportunities to gain relevant higher level knowledge and skills, and to provide employers with graduates who are not only well educated but highly useful in the workplace.
“We are also in the process of developing important links with successful Universities across the region, including the University of Cumbria.”
Engineering graduate Joel Proger, 27, said: “My HNC has given me a good insight onto the working world… and has allowed me to progress onto a HND – which is the equivalent to two full years at University.”
For more information about Nelson and Colne College’s University Centre contact 01282 440272 or visit www.nelson.ac.uk
