More than one hundred graduates, along with their families and college staff, came together at the historic Stockport Town Hall on Thursday (20th November) to celebrate their achievements at the Trafford and Stockport College Group 2025 Graduation Ceremony.
The evening recognised the dedication, resilience and hard work shown by learners across a wide range of higher-level qualifications. Guests enjoyed a relaxed drinks reception before hearing an inspiring welcome speech from Group Principal Carmen Gonzalez-Eslava.
Special guests on the night included the Mayor and Mayoress of Stockport, representatives from Sheffield Hallam University, and the Association of Colleges.
Stockport-born Stephen Oliver, CEO of Music Magpie, delivered a warm and engaging keynote speech. He spoke about how he founded his company, the importance of sticking with your goals, and the many exciting opportunities available in Stockport. He encouraged graduates to embrace their future with confidence and trust in the journeys ahead of them.
The ceremony also highlighted the personal growth and career readiness of students who have worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone. Graduates took part in the traditional academic procession with staff, creating plenty of joyful moments for family photos and adding to the lively atmosphere.
Special awards were presented to students who went above and beyond during their studies.
Cameron Michael Sewell, a Childhood Studies graduate, received the Student Representative of the Year Award. Reflecting on his journey, he said, “One aspect of the TSCG community that was particularly alluring was the flexibility to work in a local Greater Manchester primary school while deepening my knowledge in a small, intimate learning environment. Being dyslexic myself, this experience has helped me become a better advocate for children and young people with SEND.”
He continued, “I have won two awards in three years because I decided to return to higher education as a mature student and become who I truly am. Now I have unconditional offers from institutions I once thought were out of reach. Hard work and determination do pay off, but you must believe in yourself and trust the process.”
Group Principal at Trafford and Stockport College Group, Carmen Gonzalez-Eslava said: “We are immensely proud of our graduates, many of whom have returned to education while juggling jobs, families, and countless other responsibilities. Their determination, resilience and belief in their own potential are a daily inspiration to all of us at the
College Group. They prove that it is always possible to pursue your ambitions and that, with commitment and courage, you can overcome even the toughest challenges.
I also want to acknowledge our incredible staff teams across TSCG and the University Centre for their unwavering passion, care and professionalism, for inspiring our students to believe in themselves, and for transforming lives every single day.”
