Scunthorpe hosts its first ever Graduation ceremony!

The Baths Hall was the venue, as the University Campus North Lincolnshire (UCNL) welcomed students, for what was an inaugural graduation ceremony for both the institution and its home town of Scunthorpe.

Supported by family, friends, teaching staff, key community stakeholders from the Scunthorpe and North Lincolnshire region, as well as representatives from university partners, including Sheffield Hallam University and the University of Hull, vast numbers of graduates took to the stage; subsequently receiving rapturous applause from a packed audience.

Lindsey McGrath, UCNL graduate, said: “I’ve loved having the opportunity to pursue higher education right here in my home town – first with my BA (Hons) in Management and now my PGCE. Graduating at The Baths Hall was a fantastic moment, surrounded by so many students celebrating their achievements across a wide range of courses.”

Hosting a first ceremony afforded opportunity for reflection, with inspiring speeches from DN Colleges Chair of Governors, Angela Briggs, and Principal and Chief Executive Officer, John Rees.

Continuing the theme of inspiration, guest speaker, Steve Judge, then shared his remarkable story of overcoming adversity. After a near-fatal car accident left him swimming against the tide, doctors predicted he would never walk again. Never giving up and being driven in his pursuit of overcoming those aforementioned challenges, he went on to become a Twice World Champion in Paratriathlon.

Tying in his accomplishments with those of all the UCNL graduates, Steve reinforced a message of never giving up on your goals.

As the Class of 2025 exited the Baths Hall, they did so having trodden new ground – leaving behind a lasting legacy for future cohorts to come.

Daniel Bown, Vice Principal of Higher Education at DN Colleges Group, commented: “It feels right that we now host a graduation ceremony in Scunthorpe – a town where the majority of our UCNL students were born, have studied, and now, for the first time, can graduate.

“Our inaugural graduation event here was nothing short of outstanding. The atmosphere was electric, filled with pride, joy, and a deep sense of community. Students, families, and staff came together in celebration, and the day will be remembered for its warmth and spirit.

“A heartfelt thank you to everyone who made it so special.”