Several bright students from Burnham and Highbridge were celebrating when they were honoured at a graduation ceremony this week.
Lauren Organ, of Finches Way, and Hayley Dudley of Briar Court, both graduated from Weston College with Foundation Degrees in Tourism Management, during the ceremony held in the Parish Church of St John in Weston-super-Mare.
The pair, who are both former King Alfred School pupils, have been friends for years, having gone to the same primary school, secondary school and college.
Lauren, 20, enjoyed a residential trip to Bulgaria whilst studying at the college.
She commended the college, saying: “The staff are very helpful and friendly. You’re taught in small groups, which is great as it means you get lots of one-to-one attention.”
Lauren now works at North Somerset Council in the Tourism Department. This position was gained through a work placement initiated as part of her course.
Hayley, who is also aged 20 and a Trainee Manager at Welcome Break, also celebrated her achievement, saying: “It was hard work but I’m relieved it’s all paid off and am very proud! It’s also helped me start my career in the industry.”
Other students from the area who also graduated were Lauren Tasker, a former Bridgwater College student, of Friars Way in Burnham, achieved an FdA in Applied Art and Design, as did Nicola Stent of Berrow Road.
Sandra Bull from Burnham also achieved a Certificate in Education. Sandra is a lecturer at Weston College in the Image and Performance Faculty.
Anthony Murray, Director of Higher Education, said: “Our aim is to offer students a higher education experience that is distinctive, challenging and rewarding; that allows students to embark on their future careers with confidence and success. This has resulted in increasing numbers of students choosing to study degree level courses at Weston College.”
“The College’s multi-million pound investment in higher education facilities ensures we are able to build upon our many successes, including outstanding pass rates and enhanced job prospects for graduating students.”
