Paralympic gold medallist Chris Hunt Skelley MBE inspired New College Swindon University Centre. graduates to embrace courage, overcome challenges and pursue their ambitions.
The centre (NCSUC) celebrated its degree-level graduates as students marked their achievements and looked ahead to the next stage of their careers and lives.
Chris, who won judo gold at the Tokyo Paralympics and bronze in Paris, delivered an inspiring speech at the ceremony.
Reflecting on his own experiences, including his mental health challenges before retiring from competitive judo in 2025, he encouraged graduates to recognise that courage is about more than medals or success.
His message was to take chances, acknowledge difficulties and keep moving forward, and he told graduates: “Be honest with yourself, and just try your best. That’s all we can do.”
NCSUC offers students the opportunity to achieve degree-level qualifications close to home, with smaller class sizes, industry-experienced lecturers and dedicated study spaces.
Studying locally can also help students manage work and family commitments while reducing travel and accommodation costs.
For graduate Mitchell McCarthy, choosing to study BSc Software Engineering locally was both convenient and affordable. He valued the opportunity to deepen his theoretical knowledge and strengthen his practical skills.
He said: “NCSUC is local and affordable. I came here after completing my A Levels and have since landed a job in software engineering.
"I want to continue in my current role and perhaps pursue a master’s. NCSUC is a convenient way to gain higher education.”
Ashley-Louise Lumley studied a Level 5 qualification in Leadership and Management through a degree-level apprenticeship with her employer. The course has helped her progress in her career, develop new skills and open up further opportunities.
She plans to complete her SEND training and continue supporting individuals to achieve their goals such as living independently.
Her advice to anyone considering degree-level study is simple: “Do it! You’ll be supported to achieve and find the best version of you.”
Sandra Bull, Assistant Principal for Curriculum, Quality and Higher Education at New College Swindon University Centre, said “Every graduate has their own unique story of determination and achievement.
"It was an honour to recognise those accomplishments alongside their families, friends and the staff who have supported them throughout their journey.
"We were also delighted to welcome Chris Hunt Skelley as our guest speaker. His insightful address encouraged our graduates to embrace future opportunities with confidence and ambition.
"On behalf of New College Swindon University Centre, I wish all graduates happiness and success in their future pathways”.
The graduation celebrated not only the students’ hard work and achievements but also the opportunities degree-level study can create. For those looking to progress in their current career, retrain or take their first steps into higher education, NCSUC offers a local route to achieving their ambitions.
People can find out more about degree-level courses at University Centre - New College Swindon at https://www.newcollege.ac.uk/university-centre/
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