Higher Education at Shrewsbury Colleges Group: The day our Graduates made their mark!
Friday, 4th July 2025, was a day of celebration and reflection as we honoured our Higher Education graduates at the beautiful St Chad's Church in Shrewsbury.
The day kicked off at our English Bridge Campus, where students were all gowned up and surrounded by their families, friends, and teachers. There was a buzz of nervous excitement in the air, but as soon as the caps were on, those nervous smiles turned into big grins. The tension melted away and the energy was infectious! In the gardens, photos were snapped, capturing the first moments of what was set to be an unforgettable day.
After pre-ceremony celebrations, graduates gathered in The Square. They were then led in a grand procession to St Chad’s Church by the Mayor of Shrewsbury, our Principal James Staniforth, and members of our Senior Leadership Team. The procession wasn’t just a ceremonial walk; it was a vibrant display of the thriving Higher Education community at Shrewsbury Colleges Group. It was a powerful moment for both the graduates and the town, showcasing that Higher Education not only exists here, but it is flourishing in the very heart of the community. It was so special to see the faces of our graduates beaming with confidence and a sense of accomplishment, as they walked through the streets of their hometown.
"My favourite working day! It was amazing to celebrate with our incredible students. Well done to everyone, we're very proud of you." - Jane Owen, Director of Higher Education
The graduation ceremony at St Chad’s Church was a truly memorable occasion, filled with pride and joy. James reminded the graduates of a long standing Shrewsbury Colleges Group tradition: to see which graduate’s family and friends could cheer the loudest as their name was called. True to form, they did not disappoint! The room erupted with cheers and applause for each and every student, giving them the moment they had worked so hard for.
Once the formalities were over, it was time for the most iconic moment of any graduation ceremony - the hat throw! Marking the end of one chapter and the exciting start of another.
One of the unique aspects of Higher Education at Shrewsbury Colleges Group is the tight-knit community it fosters. With smaller class sizes and a focus on personal support, students form lasting friendships while receiving a high-quality, affordable education close to home. We were so happy to see such a display of those friendships throughout the day.
Congratulations to our graduates of 2025. You did it! Your hard work and commitment have paid off and we look forward to seeing all you will achieve in the years to come. Stay in touch, we'll always be here to cheer you on from the sidelines.
View the full gallery below!
