Graduation 2011

York College students graduated at a double ceremony at the Royal York Hotel. The College held two ceremonies this year to accommodate more than 170 students, graduating in subjects as wide ranging as Construction Studies, Fashion Design, Internet and Business Technologies, Sports Therapy, 3D Contemporary Crafts and Media Make-up.

Speeches were made by College Principal,
Dr Alison Birkinshaw and guest speaker
Greg Dyke, former Director-General of the BBC and Chancellor of the University of York. Music was provided by York College students.

Bob Saynor, Assistant Principal for Lifelong Learning and Higher Education at York College said: "The significant demand from students, family and friends to attend this years Graduation Ceremony is fantastic. This clearly reflects everyone's desire to celebrate the achievements of students completing their higher education studies at York College. Besides national recruitment onto our awards, it is rewarding to see those students who started many years ago on our further education courses and progressed onto our higher education programmes. With the increase in tuition fees to study higher education courses in 2012/13 it will become increasingly important for us to offer local HE opportunities for students in York and the wider area to reduce the overall financial burden. We celebrate the achievements of this years graduates and wish them every success in their future studies and careers.”

Sisters graduate together
It was a great day for creative sisters Mollie and Esme Dodd when they graduated together at the York College Graduation Ceremony. Mollie (aged 30) graduated with a BA (Hons) in 3D Craft & Design and Esme (aged 26) with a BA (Hons) in Fashion Design.

For mum of two Mollie, who previously worked in a managerial post in the catering industry for twelve years, it was a labour of love for her to return to learn. Always having an interest in Art & Design, she left school and somehow fell into a career in catering. Since having children Mollie decided to take time out to further her horizons. Says Mollie: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my degree and the College life. My sister has lived with me for the last year and we have bounced ideas around the house, helping and supporting each other through projects. It has been a special time in our lives .”

Younger sister Esme returned to York College to complete her degree in Fashion Design after initially studying a National Diploma in Fashion ten years ago. After spending time in London she decided to move in with her sister and complete her studies. Says Esme: “I have very much appreciated the personal approach from tutors at the College and the supportive learning environment. Exhibiting my final collection at the College Fashion Show was a real highlight for me. It feels good to have achieved my goal and it been great to do this alongside my sister.”

Looking to the future, Mollie is contemplating a teaching qualification at York College in September, or returning to working life. She is happy to continue with her Art & Design work as a hobby but now with the possibility of starting up her own business. Esme on the other hand intends looking for work in costume design. She currently alters garments for a vintage shop in York and also has interior design experience.

Both sisters agree they had an enjoyable creative learning experience at York College and feel excited for the future. It was a proud day for the Dodd family when they saw Mollie and Esme collect their degrees together.