The students from the University’s faculties of Education and Sport, Creative Arts, Technologies and Science, Health and Social Sciences, and the University of Bedfordshire Business School, attended five graduation ceremonies held at the Bedford Corn Exchange over two days.

The town was also host for the pomp and ceremony of the University’s annual civil ceremony which preceded one of the graduations. The ceremony saw dignitaries, led by the town’s mayor, Dave Hodgson march to the Corn Exchange from the Swan Hotel to the sound of the University’s Pipe Band.

As well the Undergraduate and Postgraduate awards handed out this week there were also a number of students prizes awarded to outstanding students.

For Katie Thomasson, awarded a First in Sport and Exercise Science, her graduation saw her presented with two prizes. The first was for the Eileen Alexander Award in recognition of being the undergraduate student with the highest degree classification average within the Department of Sport Science and Physical Activity. The second came from the Physiological Society, where she won the Undergraduate Prize for Physiology.

On hearing of her awards she said: “I was totally shocked; I didn’t know I would be getting them. It didn’t come without hard work but to think I managed to get an award was pretty amazing.”

The full list of student prizes awarded over the two days:

• Dennika Francis-Phillips, The Education Studies Prize
• Katie Thomasson, The Eileen Alexander Award (Department of Sport Science & Physical Activity)
• Jade Bailey, Best Overall Achievement in Performing Arts
• Nina Bandy, Best Overall Academic Performance in English
• Nikolas Wright, Outstanding Achievement 2015 (Department of Media, Arts and Production)

The graduation ceremonies were attended by Guest of Honours, Mike Berrill, Principal Biddenham International School and Sports College and Dr Maria Robinson a lecturer, counsellor, trainer and advisor in early years development.

The new graduates were also addressed by the newly elected President and Vice President of the University’s Students’ Union Charlie Hughes and Tara Alade.

As recent graduates themselves they were able to pass on their own advice and experience.

 “Do not be a product of your circumstances, but a product of your own decisions,” said Tara.

“You leave here today with more than just a qualification, but with friendships, fond memories and equipped with the skills to realise your dreams and reach out potential.”