CONGRATULATIONS: Chesterfield College graduates celebrate

Family, friends and academics joined the graduates at a celebration at Casa Hotel on Friday.

Almost 300 people graduated with a range of qualifications from higher national diplomas to degrees in a variety of subjects ranging from criminal justice to computing, engineering to education and human resources to health and fitness.

Julie Richards, principal of Chesterfield College, said: "I want to congratulate all of our graduates on their fantastic achievements.

"I have heard many of them talk about how these qualifications are already making a difference to their employment prospects and how studying with us has opened new doors to help achieve ambitions and goals.

"It is wonderful to be able to be a part of their journey alongside employers and families whose support should not be underestimated.

"I am proud that the college group can offer people the choice to study to this level here in Chesterfield or through higher level apprenticeships across the country."

Nicole Ball, 33, from Darley Dale, graduated with a foundation degree in psychology and health.

She said: "It feels amazing to be graduating.

"It gives you a huge sense of achievement.

"I have absolutely loved the course and it has already helped me to start a new career working in mental health services.

"I was offered the job after doing a placement as part of the course so it really did open doors for me."

Higher apprentice Christian Walton, 41, from Inkersall, graduated today with a level five diploma in management and leadership.

He said: "It was definitely a steep learning curve at first, especially learning how to write more academically, but the support and the tutors at college have been fantastic.

"I was actually promoted to customer service manager a year ago thanks to the skills I've learned during my apprenticeship and I am exploring my options to progress on to a level six qualification."