University Centre Middlesbrough (UCM), part of Middlesbrough College Group, hosted one of its largest-ever graduation ceremonies on Thursday 13th November, as students, staff, and families gathered at Middlesbrough’s historic Town Hall to mark the achievements of this year’s higher education graduates.
The event saw 168 students graduate with university-level qualifications, surrounded by hundreds of well-wishers, including proud family members, friends, and College staff. The ceremony marked a major milestone for students who have worked hard to achieve qualifications that combine academic excellence with real-world skills.
Graduates received qualifications in a wide range of subjects, including Construction, Electrical and Electronic Engineering, Games Development, Computing, Travel and Aviation, Audio and Music Production, Business Management, Culinary Arts, Early Childhood Professional Studies, Hospitality Management, Teaching and Learning Support, and Sports Coaching, Development and Fitness.
Each graduate was awarded a university-level qualification from UCM, validated by The Open University or Pearson Education, reflecting Middlesbrough College Group’s continued commitment to providing high-quality higher education that meets industry and employer needs.
Wiktoiria Sosnowska, 22 from Bedale, Northallerton studied Airport and Airline Passenger Management and having achieved her BA (Hons) Degree, alongside her full time role at Ryanair as a cabin manager, is now teaching part time at UCM, as well as working at a dementia care home.
As the 2025 Class Valedictorian, Wiktoiria delivered an emotional address and afterwards commented: “Studying at UCM gave me the confidence and knowledge to progress in my aviation career and beyond. The support from my tutors and the friendships I’ve made have been incredible. I’m proud to now be teaching travel and tourism alongside my role as a cabin manager with Ryanair – it’s exciting to be inspiring others while continuing to grow in a field I love.”
Dan Campbell, 39 from Grangetown, Middlesbrough was awarded a Level 5 Certificate in Education. Dan said: “I’ve always wanted to teach, even as a child, but I never thought it would actually happen. I joined the UCM team as a tutor within the engineering department and I’ve now been teaching here for four years. Balancing learning and teaching was challenging at times, but the support from my tutors was invaluable. My favourite moment is always seeing students achieve their qualifications and hearing them say they couldn’t have done it without me. I honestly can’t see myself being anywhere else.”
Charlotte Bingham, 21 from Acklam, graduated with a 2:1 BSc (Hons) in Sports Coaching, Development and Fitness. Commenting on her learning journey, she said: “My favourite part of college life has been the amazing support from tutors and the close-knit learning environment.
“I’ve been part of Middlesbrough College Group since I was 16, and it’s helped me grow so much – from becoming a qualified personal trainer and gymnastics teacher to achieving my degree. Now that I’m studying for my Primary PGCE at York St John University, I’m excited to be broadening my passion for teaching and physical activity to the whole curriculum.”
Natasha Osborne, 31 from Whinney Banks, Middlesbrough graduated with a 2:1 Foundation Degree in Specialist Hair and Make-up Artistry for Creative Industries. She said: “Pursuing my studies at UCM has helped me explore different hair and make-up specialisms and discover my passion for timeless, classical bridal make-up. I’m now completing my top-up degree to achieve my BA (Hons) and looking forward to building my own business as a self-employed bridal hair and make-up artist, turning what I love into a career.”
UCM’s higher education programmes offer students flexible, affordable and career-focused pathways, allowing students to gain degree-level qualifications while staying close to home. Smaller class sizes and close support from tutors with specialist, hands-on industry expertise, provide a personal learning experience that helps students excel both academically and professionally.
Principal and Chief Executive, Zoe Lewis CBE said: “Graduation is one of the proudest days in our academic calendar. It’s a moment to celebrate the hard work and resilience of our students, who have shown great dedication in balancing their studies alongside work and family commitments. We’re incredibly proud of what they’ve achieved and excited to see where their ambitions take them next.”
UCM continues to strengthen its reputation as a leading provider of higher education in the Tees Valley, offering opportunities that prepare students for skilled employment, career advancement, and further study. Click here to find out more about University Centre Middlesbrough!
