On Friday 20 June, we were extremely proud to be gathered at The University of Bristol’s Wills Memorial Building to celebrate the incredible achievements of our Further Education graduates alongside their friends, family and support networks at our 2025 Further Education Graduation.
It certainly was a historic occasion as this marked the first Further Education Graduation held by the college.
The air buzzed with excitement in an incredible venue boasting both grandeur and academic greatness, setting the stage for honouring our students’ new qualifications and outstanding accomplishments.
Distinguished guests, esteemed staff, graduands and members of the congregation came together, making this celebration even more special.
The celebration was kindly sponsored by Dovetail & Slate and The Guild of Guardians of Bristol. Many City of Bristol College Governors were also in attendance; Phil Smith, Jess Winkler, Judi Harper, Dan Jones and Marc Griffiths.
Speaking of the ceremony on the following day, Principal and Chief Executive Officer, Julia Gray commented: “Yesterday was an incredible day at City of Bristol College as we celebrated our Further Education students graduating at the iconic Wills Memorial Building of the University of Bristol.
“We had dance performances from the Flaming Feathers, keynote addresses in each ceremony from a pioneer of the Bristol drum and bass scene DJ Krust, Deputy Principal Catherine Howett bringing the energy to lead the celebration for every single student, food, mocktails, photo booths, music throughout the day, it was a genuine joy.
“The team effort to deliver this event was phenomenal, and colleagues worked hard to curate this event to ensure it was joyful, inspirational and aspirational.
“Students from all four campuses and our two independent living centres experienced an incredible graduation event.
“There were tears from colleagues and parents, and Krust said in his last address that it had been emotional. A parent spoke to me to offer her thanks for recognising vocational students as their education is just as important, I couldn’t agree more.
“Yesterday was about our students, it was about Bristol, it was joyful and it further cements the incredible journey we are on at City of Bristol College.”
Graduating Computing student, and deserving winner of The Principal’s Award, Jasaulla Khan stated: “Last Friday, two years at City of Bristol College had come to a close, having graduated.
“From being in class and pursuing my qualification, to participation outside of academics such as being on the Student Council, organising the college’s first Open Iftar, hosting political hustings and campaigning for social and environmental justice, these past two years have taught me so much.
“Shoutout to the teachers and staff for all their amazing support and also for giving me the opportunity to contribute to the college community, leaving behind a legacy where future students can build upon.
“Finally, a huge thank you to Julia Gray for presenting me with the Principal Award in recognition of these past two years (this was my highlight of the graduation ceremony).
“It was emotional hearing the short intro before I was called up to receive the award. It was around then when it set in and registered in my mind that this chapter is ending and I’ll be taking the next step in my life. But I’ll always hold dear the college and all the people I’ve met there and had the joy of getting to know.”
On the day itself, Director of Student Experience, Quality and Safeguarding, Amy Woodrow said: “Could not have been prouder of the City of Bristol College Student Experience Team than I was today.
“Our first ever Further Education graduation at the spectacular Wills Hall was a huge success. We had fun, food, entertainment and most importantly celebrated the incredible achievements of our amazing students!”
A heartfelt congratulations to all of our incredibly talented Further Education graduates – may your futures be bright!
To discover more about our Further Education courses, simply click here.
