This year the Exeter College Higher Education Graduation returned to the spectacular setting of Exeter Cathedral. Graduates gathered to celebrate their success and achievements in this special ceremony amongst family, friends, staff and local dignitaries.  

Students, dressed in their graduation caps and gowns, came together to mark the end of their studies at Exeter College. It was a delight to once again, see graduates process from the Rougemont Hotel, down the high street and across Cathedral Green, after last year’s ceremony moved to an online celebration.  

Professor Lisa Roberts, Vice Chancellor at the University of Exeter delivered an inspiring and motivational keynote speech to the class of 2021, highlighting the invaluable skills they have gained while studying at the college and the possibilities this could open up for them.  

Speaking about the event, she said: “I am delighted to be a guest of honour at the Exeter College Graduation Ceremony. The University of Exeter and Exeter College have forged a strong partnership providing outstanding lifelong learning opportunities in our city and region.  

“We are creating a beacon of education excellence here in the South West and that is evident from the talented and high-achieving students graduating and the quality of teaching on offer. It is a pleasure to join in the celebrations and wish everyone a happy graduation ceremony and every success for their future.”   

Exeter College’s Principal and Chief Executive John Laramy CBE opened the ceremony. He said:  

“This graduation ceremony is an important rite of passage for our Higher Education students and is a celebration of all their hard work. We are delighted to be back in this inspirational building for this truly exceptional day. 

“We have a special collaboration with the University of Exeter so we were extremely proud to have Professor Lisa Roberts here with us today to join us in congratulating our students. We are uniquely placed in Exeter and our partnership enables us to play our part in the tapestry of Higher Education for our city and region.  

“Graduation marks an important day for any student, obtaining a degree is a significant step in their educational journey and I am incredibly proud of all their achievements during their time at Exeter College. I wish them all the best for their future endeavours.” 

The event also celebrated two special award winners. Lewis Tregale, a former student of the Exeter Royal Academy for Deaf Education, has been awarded the Plymouth University Academic Partnerships Prize, having just gained a BSc (Hons) in Health and Social Care. He said: 

“It is an honour and a privilege to achieve this award, graduation is a way of recognising all the achievements and hard work put in over the past three years. The next step is to get more experience with working with young deaf people and I am excited to go on this new journey.” 

Sophie Bruce was awarded the Exeter College Award for Excellence; 

“I am honoured to have won the Higher Education Exeter College Award. It has been a challenging year and having my hard work recognised is amazing and has shown me that it was worth the effort. Throughout my time on the Graphic Communications Foundation Degree at Exeter College, my confidence and skills within graphic design have grown massively. I am proud of what I have achieved and have high aspirations for my future career within the design industry.” 

Find out more about university level learning with Exeter College at the next open event on Wednesday 17 November 2021.