2nd December 2016
Over 100 Barking & Dagenham College graduates, watched by their proud friends, family, VIPs and members of staff, received their degrees on the weekend (Saturday 26 November) at the College?s Higher Education Awards & Graduation Ceremony.
Acting Principal and CEO, Yvonne Kelly, gave the opening address before leading the celebrations of the outstanding achievement of the students. Awards and certificates were presented by the Mayor of Barking and Dagenham, Councillor Eileen Keller in subjects ranging from automotive engineering, 3D design, and construction, to photography, animation and business management.
William Jimenez Bustos from Dagenham, was also delighted to find out that he was the proud recipient of first prize in the Symons-Hatton Award. The Symons-Hatton Award is given to students that demonstrate a high level of commitment on their photography or media course. William was presented with a cheque for £1000. Two other students were highly commended for the Award and each received £500.
Gessami Dato from Romford, also had great reason to celebrate. She received a first class honours degree in animation, was commended for the Symons-Hatton Award, and was also presented with the Special Recognition Award and £250! Gessami was chosen for the award for her commitment and dedication to her studies. Her tutors commented that she also demonstrated natural management and leadership skills, which she showed when she managed and organised the College’s end of year exhibition.
The graduation ceremony was enjoyed by all who attended. Not only were students receiving awards on the night, many were also instrumental in the celebrations. The flower arrangements and bouquets were designed and made by the College’s floristry department and the entertainment was provided by a former student and now College employee, Jolaade Lawal, who performed a great rendition of Witney Houston’s ‘When you believe’.
Brendan James, Head of Higher Level Skills & Enhancement at the College commented: “It’s great to see so many local people realising their dream of securing a degree. Studying at their local college saves on travel costs, accommodation costs and the fees are much lower than most universities, opening up the door to higher education to many more people.
We are very proud of their achievements.”
