On Friday 5 September a congregation of more than 1500 people crammed into the Waterfront Hall Belfast celebrate the Higher Education successes of South Eastern Regional College (SERC) students. Joined together with family, friends and tutors, the graduation celebrated the efforts and academic achievements of the ‘Class of 2014’ at their appropriately themed ‘Get the Edge’ Graduation Ceremony

The event, generously sponsored by East Down and Lisburn Education Partnership, recognised the hard work and dedication of hundreds of full and part-time students. College Principal and Chief Executive Mr Ken Webb explains: “The annual Graduation Celebration is a highlight in the college calendar; it showcases students’ achievements at Higher Education level in a variety of programme areas.”

Ken goes on to explain this year’s theme, “This year’s graduation celebrates our strong links with industry which provides every student with the opportunity to improve their employability skills in an increasingly competitive job market.  Employers have informed us that a qualification is not enough anymore and students need to have much more in terms of skills and experience. In response we have developed educational partnerships with local companies including Tesco, Belfast International Airport, Wilson Construction and Royal Mail to help students gain vital employability skills whilst at the same time solving real-life business scenarios. I would like to take this opportunity on behalf of the College to wish all our graduates every success for the future” 

For SERC graduate Anastasiya Smyth from Crossgar, there was double reason to celebrate as she not only completed her HND in Advanced Practice in Working with Children and Families, but was also presented with the award for Excellence in Commitment to Learning in the Face of Challenge.
Anastasiya explains: “I am delighted to have completed the HND course at South Eastern Regional College. I would like to take this opportunity to thank all my lecturers at SERC who were very supportive and encouraging.”
This year’s guest speaker, Kyle Gawley CEO and Co-Founder of Get Invited Ltd, praised the hard work and commitment of both students and tutors. Speaking to the congregation Kyle said, “This is the culmination of many years of hard work, dedication and commitment. Each one of you should be justifiably proud of your achievements.”

Following the graduation ceremony eighteen further awards were made, congratulating students on their enthusiastic approach to life and learning. These awards were established as an opportunity for SERC to honour and reward those students whose commitment to learning and training has set them apart from their peers.
Finally, David Mace, HND Construction and the Built Environment graduate from Lisburn made the inspirational and emotional closing address. After thanking the staff, fellow graduates’ and his family for their support, David added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the teaching staff at SERC for their dedication and support to the students graduating here today.”

Nine special awards were also presented to local businesses who have enriched the student learning experience through the provision of industry projects, educational visits and work placement opportunities.

With 97 percent of SERC students’ progressing into employment, self-employment or onto higher level courses, on completion of their course; SERC is a great example of how the Further Education sector offers a real alternative to university for intelligent and ambitious people who want to work towards internationally- recognised qualifications and a rewarding career.
To find out how SERC can help you ‘get the edge’ visit www.serc.ac.uk or find us on Facebook, search: South Eastern Regional College.

Pictured are Foundation degree, hospitality, tourism and events students from SERC Downpatrick enjoying graduation. Pictured are Hannah Moore, Lauren Deegan, Daniel Murdock, Grainne McGlynn, Shannon Fitzsimons and Cliodna Hayes.