The Bedford College Group, with campuses across Bedfordshire and Northamptonshire, proudly celebrated the achievements of its Higher Skills students at their 2026 Higher Skills Graduation Ceremony, held at the Corn Exchange in Bedford.
The ceremony recognised the dedication, resilience and ambition of graduates who completed Higher National Certificates (HNCs), Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), Foundation Degrees, Degree-level programmes and other Higher Education diploma qualifications across the Group.
Family, friends, employers and College staff gathered to honour the graduates’ achievements as they marked an important milestone in their academic and professional journeys.
The event celebrated not only academic success but also the determination shown by students who balanced their studies alongside careers, family responsibilities and the demands of everyday life and developed the higher-level skills needed to support the region’s workforce and future economic growth.
Commitment to delivering high quality education and technical qualifications
The ceremony also highlighted The Bedford College Group’s commitment to delivering high-quality higher education and technical qualifications that equip students with the knowledge, confidence and practical expertise required by employers across a wide range of industries.
In addition to celebrating student success, the event recognised members of The Bedford College Group’s teaching staff who have recently been awarded Higher Education Academy (HEA) Fellowship. This internationally recognised accreditation reflects excellence in teaching and learning and reinforces the strength and quality of the Group’s higher education provision.
Yiannis Koursis OBE, CEO of The Bedford College Group, said:
“Today stands as an important milestone not only for our organisation and our regions, but most importantly for every Higher Skills student we are here to celebrate. This moment represents the result of years of commitment, ambition and determination. We are immensely proud of what our graduates have achieved and excited for the opportunities ahead of them. Wherever their journey takes them next, may the confidence, knowledge and values they have gained here continue to guide and empower them.”
A celebration of achievements
The Higher Skills Graduation Ceremony reflects The Bedford College Group’s continued investment in higher technical and professional education, providing students with clear progression routes into skilled employment and further study while supporting the economic ambitions of Bedfordshire, Northamptonshire and the wider region.
As graduates begin the next chapter of their careers and education, the ceremony served as a fitting celebration of their achievements and the transformative power of higher education.
Find out more
To find out more about courses across The Bedford College Group, visit Bedford College Group | The Bedford College Group | Further and Higher Education