Nearly 300 University Centre Somerset (UCS) graduates celebrated years of hard work, determination and achievement at Wells Cathedral, marking a major milestone in their lives and the beginning of an exciting new chapter.
Surrounded by proud family members, friends and lecturers, the Class of 2026 celebrated their academic success, equipped with the skills and qualifications to pursue careers in industries vital to Somerset’s economy. 
Graduates represented a wide range of degree programmes, including nursing, engineering, counselling, animal management, agricultural management, computing and makeup artistry, reflecting the breadth of opportunities available through higher education in Somerset.
As part of UCS College Group, UCS is committed to developing the region’s talent, preparing students not just to achieve qualifications, but to pursue careers that matter to Somerset.
Andy Berry CBE, CEO of UCS College Group, said: “UCS is about delivering degrees for real life, and for real communities like ours. This graduating class represents the next generation of nurses, engineers, teachers, designers and leaders. We’re incredibly proud of everything they’ve achieved, and of the contribution they will make to Somerset’s communities and economy.”
The ceremonies welcomed proud families and friends alongside distinguished guests, including Deputy Lieutenant of Somerset Nigel Beacom (pictured), High Sheriff of Somerset Peter Dixon and the Mayor of Wells, Denise Denis.
Representatives from UCS’s university partners, including the University of Plymouth, Oxford Brookes University, UWE Bristol and The Open University, were also present to confer awards and celebrate the graduates’ achievements.
The ceremonies also recognised exceptional individual achievements, with prizes awarded for academic excellence, outstanding dissertations and personal determination. Among those celebrated was Orlagh Cronin, who graduated with a BA (Hons) in Makeup Artistry, Prosthetic FX and Wig Making and received the prestigious Student of the Year award.
Adding a personal touch to the celebrations, graduates Sarah Thomas and Edison Berridge reflected on their experiences at UCS as they delivered the traditional student votes of thanks during the morning and afternoon ceremonies.
With degree-level courses delivered across Somerset, UCS offers students the opportunity to gain university-level qualifications close to home, supported by industry-experienced lecturers and strong links with employers.
For those inspired by the achievements of the Class of 2026, applications are now open for courses starting in September 2027.
The graduation 2026 prize winners were:
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