CEO Dr Nikos Savvas says ‘to be graduating in our centenary year is something truly special’.
It was a double cause for celebration at the St Edmundsbury Cathedral today when the place of worship played host to the annual University Studies at West Suffolk College (USWSC) graduation ceremony (Saturday 11 October 2025).
131 graduands received their awards in front of an audience of around 300 people.
They did so during Eastern Education Group and West Suffolk College’s centenary year. University Studies at West Suffolk College is part of Eastern Education Group.
Students succeeded in a range of subjects and courses ranging from computing to construction and English to engineering.
- 58 picked up degree certificates with 17 receiving first class honours.
- 39 people got HND, HNC, CertHE and DipHE qualifications.
- 28 received higher apprenticeships and six got executive assistant level four qualifications.
Dr Nikos Savvas DL, CEO of Eastern Education Group, comprising outstanding colleges and schools from across the Eastern region, said: “I am incredibly proud of each and every one of our students. To be graduating in our centenary year is something truly special. This celebration reflects the very best of our community — learners of all ages and backgrounds, from degree students to apprentices, achieving together. Their success is a testament to the dedication of our staff, the support of families, and the strength of Eastern Education Group’s partnerships. Our graduates of 2025 are leaving us with the skills and determination to shape not only their own lives, but the world around them.’’
In an emotional speech he went on to reflect on some amazing achievements.
They included the story of Debbie Balfour, 48, from Stowupland who went from cutting hair to a counselling degree and gained a first. Debbie has already found employment and wants to do a PhD in the future. Harry Bentley, 23, from Bury St Edmunds gained a first. He then travelled to America over the summer as a football coach and one day he would love to secure a position working for his beloved Nottingham Forest Football Club.
Another student – Maria Costa De Sousa, 23, from East Harling in Norfolk – also got a first and picked up her certificate on the same day as her birthday.
Laraine Moody, Group Principal University and Professional Development, at West Suffolk College gave a ceremonial address. She said: “Our graduation ceremony has to be one of my favourite moments in our annual calendar and this year was no exception. To see the joy on the faces of our students, their families and loved ones during this ceremony at the cathedral during our centenary year, was life affirming. A massive congratulations to everyone.”
Dr Julia Firmin (the Eastern Education Group Academic Resources Advisor) was the master of ceremonies, and the Very Revd Joe Hawes also gave a blessing.
Professor Julian Blow, Pro Vice-Chancellor (Research and Innovation), University of East Anglia conferred all degrees.
This year an honorary degree was given to James Taylor, the chairman of TMJ Interiors.
On receiving this accolade, Mr Taylor said: “It’s an honour to be recognised with this degree and to be part of an event that brings together such distinguished individuals. I’m especially thankful to our people, whose dedication continues to drive our success. Once an apprentice myself, it brings me pride to see young talent begin their careers at TMJ Interiors and evolve into various roles across the business.”
After the ceremony, guests and graduates mingled with staff, friends and families in the gardens of the cathedral.
In addition to students having their academic awards conferred, four prizes were presented to students who were nominated by tutors for their outstanding achievements during their studies. The awards were as follows. Outstanding dissertation – Debbie Balfour. Exemplary Academic Achievement – Bradley Moore. Outstanding Academic Progress – Alfie Wilson. Outstanding Personal Progress – Katie Jacobs.
All higher education qualifications are accredited by the University of East Anglia, Pearson, University of Suffolk, Skills England and the Adam Fidler Academy.
