09.11.06
Cornwall's graduates celebrate

Hundreds of graduates filled Truro Cathedral to celebrate the results of their hard work with Cornwall College. The graduates, who came from all over Cornwall, were awarded degrees, foundation degrees and university certificates during the two ceremonies held this month.

The celebrations highlighted the impact that the Objective One Combined Universities in Cornwall initiative has had on Cornwall College and the region's students.

Collecting her award for Cornwall College Student of the Year at the graduation ceremony was Michelle Spillane-Smith, who graduated with a distinction in the Zoological Conservation Foundation Degree, which she studied at Cornwall College Newquay.

"It's a very close knit campus at Newquay," explained Michelle. "The course provided great opportunities to gain experience and further knowledge in this specialised field. My time there helped me realise my true future ambitions and I loved every minute!"

Michelle's tutor, Rebecca Allen, who nominated her for the award, commented, "It's been a real pleasure to teach Michelle. She has been one of our outstanding students, helpful to others, producing excellent assignments and taking an active role in student life - we wish her all the best for the future."

Recognised as the College's University of Plymouth Student of the Year for 2006 was Susan Uglow from Launceston, who graduated with a distinction from the Health and Community Studies Foundation Degree. "I was really surprised at what I was able to achieve," Susan said. "I wanted to improve my skills in information technology and academic writing, but what I've really enjoyed on the course is the research in my own chosen area of interest in health."

Susan undertook the course while working as a support worker for an organisation which supports people with learning disabilities, and she is now deputy manager at the unit. "Despite the other demands on Susan's time, she was always an active participant throughout the course," enthused Judith Mann, who taught Susan at Cornwall College and nominated her for the award. "She supported other students and showed great commitment to her studies. She is thoroughly deserving of this award." Susan is now continuing her studies by progressing to the one-year degree in Health and Social Care Management at Cornwall College, to top-up her Foundation Degree to a full Honours Degree.

Cornwall College, as a partner of the University of Plymouth Colleges Faculty, has grown significantly in recent years with investment from the Combined Universities in Cornwall initiative, which has brought new university courses, buildings and facilities for university students across the region. This year the College's higher education enrolments increased by over 15%, compared with a national drop of around 4%, bringing student numbers to their highest ever.

"Congratulations to all those collecting their awards," said John Latham, CEO and Principal of Cornwall College. "This is my first graduation ceremony at Cornwall College and it's hugely encouraging to see so many people benefiting from the expansion of university education in Cornwall."

Many of Cornwall College's university courses are validated by the University of Plymouth. Representing the University at the ceremony was Dr Ian Tunbridge, Dean of University of Plymouth Colleges and Dr Dave Stephenson, Director of Academic Planning and Development.

"It's excellent to see so many local people celebrating with their families and friends here today," said Dr Tunbridge. "This was a very memorable occasion for all those who took part and I'd like to wish all those who received their awards success and happiness in their future careers."

For further information please contact Lucy Thornton at Cornwall College on 01726 226553 or email lucy.thornton@cornwall.ac.uk.

The Objective One Programme for Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly has invested in the Combined Universities in Cornwall (CUC) project, both Phase 1 and Phase 2 through the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and the European Social Fund (ESF). Cornwall College is a partner in the CUC.

Editor's notes:

Cornwall College is a key partner in the Combined Universities in Cornwall initiative, an Objective One project bringing millions of pounds of investment to Cornwall to improve university opportunities for local people.

Cornwall College is also a partner of the University of Plymouth Colleges faculty. The University validates many of the College's courses, and the two institutions have worked together for more than 25 years.

Cornwall College offers over 100 university level courses throughout Cornwall, across its seven main campuses (in St Austell, Newquay, Camborne, Saltash, Falmouth Marine School, Duchy College Stoke Climsland and Duchy College Rosewarne).

Clare Morgan
Media Relations Manager
Objective One Partnership Office
Castle House
Pydar Street
Truro TR1 2UD
Mobile: 07973 813647
Telephone: 01872 223439

cmorgan@cornwall.gov.uk

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