Last weekend, SMB College Group proudly held its annual Graduation ceremony, celebrating the class of 2023 and all of their hard-work and achievements!
The event, which took place at the stunning Brooksby Hall, brought together the graduating class, their lecturers, cherished friends, families, and well-wishers, for a memorable occasion.
At the ceremony, the culmination of years of hard work and dedication was marked by the presentation of certificates, alongside the honouring of outstanding achievements. This included the presentation of the Principal's Award to Olivia Swinbourne and the UFAW Award for Best Dissertation, which was presented to Charlotte Corden.
The Welcome Speech was given by the College’s Assistant Principal, Jon Laud, he said, “Today we gather here to celebrate not just an end but a new beginning. You should be incredibly proud of yourselves for all you have achieved, your hard work and determination has brought you here today [..] Congratulations on your well-deserved success, we can’t wait to see what you will achieve.”
The event's Guest Speaker, Jennifer Greene, an esteemed SMB Alumni and accomplished Professional Vocalist, has graced stages worldwide, from her roles in the Andrew Lloyd Webber European Tour to her recent position as a frontwoman and production manager for Women in Rock. Jennifer delivered heartfelt congratulations and shared valuable insights with the graduates, offering them aspiring advice for their future endeavours.
The Student Vote of Thanks was extended by Olivia Swinbourne, who had earned her BSc (Hons) in Equine Performance with Business at SMB College Group and is now set to pursue her Equine Masters Degree at NTU. Olivia said, “It is with the support from fellow students and staff that we were able to graduate today and that our futures are possible; so once again, on behalf of all the students, we thank you.”
After the ceremony commenced graduates took part in tossing their caps into the air, capturing the moment with photos, and enjoying drinks and canapés, celebrating their achievements and looking towards the future.
Interviews with several graduates provided insights into their next steps. Performing Arts Graduate, Megan Goodman, is working in schools teaching dance and drama while also working freelance as a Disney Princess for parties. Sports Science Graduate, George Baker, is working as a PE teacher in primary schools; and HNC Electrical & Electronic Engineering Graduate, Andrew Dorman, is hoping to progress in his career throughout the National Grid.
If you’re interested in studying a degree level course with SMB College Group, visit their website: www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk. Or, if you are an SMB Alumni, sign up to be a part of the Alumni Community www.smbcollegegroup.ac.uk/alumni.