Selby College’s University Centre Hosts Graduation at Selby Abbey

Selby College’s University Centre graduates celebrate outside of Selby Abbey

More than 50 graduates from Selby College’s University Centre gathered at Selby Abbey on Friday 18th September to celebrate the successful completion of their degree-level studies.

Students from a range of subjects, including Art, Engineering, Computing, Childcare, Public Services, Sport and Teaching, donned caps and gowns for the annual graduation ceremony, where they received their awards and marked their achievements alongside fellow graduates.

The ceremony, which takes place at the magnificent Abbey each year, opened with a speech from Principal at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, Sam Wright, who said: "Graduation is always a momentous occasion, and it is a privilege to celebrate the hard work and achievements of our graduates. Throughout their studies, we strive to equip our students with the knowledge, skills and experience they need to succeed in their next steps. Seeing them reach this milestone and embark on new journeys is incredibly rewarding, and we are proud to share this special moment with them today alongside their loved ones, course tutors and special guests."

Sam then passed over to guest speaker, 2026 Winter Olympian and former student, Leon Greenwood, who delivered an inspirational speech to the graduates.

After studying Sport at Wakefield College, which is part of the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group alongside Selby College, Leon went on to build a professional athletic career which led him to compete in the Milan Winter Olympics for Team GB’s 4-Man Bobsleigh Team.

Leon reflected on how his time at college, his supportive tutors and access to excellent facilities inspired him to aim high and pursue opportunities beyond the classroom. He encouraged graduates to follow their ambitions, urging them to visualise their goals, work hard and persevere, reminding them that "the other side of failure is success".

Leon Greenwood delivering his inspirational speech

MP for Selby, Keir Mather, also addressed the graduates, encouraging them to recognise how much they had already achieved and to place no limits on their future ambitions. He highlighted the lifelong friendships and experiences gained through college and urged students to remain optimistic, ambitious and confident in their ability to shape their own future.

MP for Selby, Keir Mather, addressing attendees

Former Performing Arts Student, Emmi Huffinley, delivered a rendition of Vienna by Billy Joel and Birds of a Feather by Billie Eilish, before graduates were invited up to the stage by Stephen Mulligan, Head of Higher Education at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group to be awarded with their certificates by the Group’s new Chair of Governors, Dr David Powell.

Representatives from the Group’s regional partners were also in attendance including the North Yorkshire Public Health Team, North Yorkshire Council, Chamber of Commerce, North Yorkshire Council and York and North Yorkshire Combined Authority.

After gaining their qualifications, students spoke of their next steps and future plans including further study and employment.

Higher National Diploma in Computing student, Thomas, said about his time at Selby College's University Centre: “Studying here has been very enjoyable. Games Design was my favourite part of the course, and I’ve developed valuable skills in databasing and teamwork that will help me in my future career. I’m now looking forward to pursuing a career in Games Design, combining my passion for creativity and technology.”

Student Thomas 

The University Centre at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group spans three campuses in Castleford, Selby and Wakefield, with courses validated by some of the region's most well-established universities, including University of Hull and University of Huddersfield.

Students study a range of Foundation Degrees, Full Degrees, Higher National Certificates and Diplomas, Top-Up Degrees, Professional Qualifications and Teacher Training Qualifications. These degree-level programmes are delivered through the University Centre and cover a range of subjects, enabling students to pursue higher education locally in Selby.

Results of the latest National Student Survey revealed that the University Centre placed third in Yorkshire for higher education student satisfaction, with an average positivity score of 91%, surpassing national benchmarks.

You can find out more about the University Centre at the Heart of Yorkshire Education Group, here.

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