Nearly 300 graduates from University Centre Somerset (UCS) celebrated their hard work, determination and achievement at Wells Cathedral on Friday 23 October, marking a major milestone in their lives and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Surrounded by proud family members, friends and lecturers, the Class of 2026 celebrated their academic success, with many now preparing to put their skills and qualifications to work in Somerset’s key industries.
Graduates represented a wide range of degree programmes, including Nursing, Engineering, Counselling, Agricultural Management, Psychology, Computing and Makeup Artistry, reflecting the breadth of opportunities available through higher education in Somerset.
As part of UCS College Group, UCS plays an important role in developing the region’s talent, providing career-focused higher education that equips students with the skills, knowledge and qualifications needed to contribute to local industries and communities.
UCS is about delivering degrees for real life, and for real communities like ours. This graduating class represents the next generation of nurses, engineers, teachers, designers and leaders. We’re incredibly proud of everything they’ve achieved, and of the contribution they will make to Somerset’s communities and economy.
Andy Berry CBE
CEO of UCS College Group
The ceremonies welcomed proud families and friends alongside distinguished guests, including Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset Brigadier Nigel Beacom, High Sheriff of Somerset Peter Dixon and the Mayor of Wells, Denise Denis.
Representatives from UCS’s university partners, including the University of Plymouth, Oxford Brookes University, UWE Bristol and The Open University, were also present to confer awards and celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
The celebrations recognised graduates who had demonstrated exceptional academic achievement, determination and commitment throughout their studies, with a series of special prizes awarded:
- James Arlett History Prize: Harvey Jefferies and Natalie Heath – BA (Hons) History, Heritage and Archaeology
- University of Plymouth Academic Partnerships Award: Mia Powell – BSc (Hons) Agricultural Management
- The Open University Highest Academic Achievement Award: Jasmine Gardner and Wendy Perks – BA (Hons) Early Childhood Education and Care
- Principal’s Prize: Melissa Gigg – Foundation Degree Nursing Associate
- Best Dissertation or Final Project: Margaret Turner – BSc (Hons) Psychology of Human Behaviour
- Student of the Year: Orlagh Cronin – BA (Hons) Makeup Artistry, Prosthetic FX and Wig Making
Adding a personal touch to the celebrations, graduates Sarah Thomas and Edison Berridge reflected on their experiences at UCS as they delivered the traditional Student Votes of Thanks during the morning and afternoon ceremonies.
With degree-level courses delivered across Somerset, UCS offers students the opportunity to gain university-level qualifications close to home, supported by industry-experienced lecturers and strong links with employers.
For those inspired by the achievements of the Class of 2026, applications are now open for courses starting in September 2027.
Find out more about studying at University Centre Somerset at www.somerset.ac.uk.