Boston College Celebrates Higher Education Success at Inspiring Graduation Ceremony

24th October 2025

Boston College proudly marked another year of outstanding achievement as it hosted its fourth Higher Education Graduation Ceremony on Thursday 23rd October at the historic St Botolph’s Church in Boston - a breathtaking venue that perfectly reflected the pride, ambition, and spirit of the day.

The atmosphere was filled with joy and anticipation as over 100 Higher Education graduates were honoured for their incredible accomplishments. With more than 70 of them attending in person, cheered on by proud families, friends, and lecturers who shared in their unforgettable moment of success.

As an academic partner of the University of Derby, Boston College continues to deliver an exceptional range of University Level programmes – from Higher National Diplomas and Foundation Degrees to full Degrees and PGCE qualifications. These opportunities empower local students to achieve their ambitions and unlock their potential, all while remaining a part of their local community.

The diversity of qualifications celebrated this year reflected the College’s wide-ranging academic strengths, including Education, Business, Creative Arts, Sport, Fitness and Wellbeing, Children and Young People, and Public Services – a true testament to the College’s mission to open doors for all students.

The day began in spectacular fashion with a ceremonial procession through the town, led by Claire Foster, Boston College Principal and CEO. The sight of graduates proudly making their way to St Botolph’s created a powerful moment of excitement, pride, and community spirit.

In her opening address, Claire expressed deep pride in the graduates’ achievements, saying, “What an absolute privilege it is to stand before you in this beautiful space, steeped in history and meaning, as we celebrate not just today’s graduates - of course, our priority - but also six decades of Boston College serving this wonderful community. To our graduating students, this is your day. And when it’s time to leave here and step into whatever comes next, remember that learning doesn’t end. Growth should never end. The bravery that brought you here will be called upon again and again. Stay curious, stay open, stay true to those values that have guided you, because you are now part of the 60-year legacy of students who have walked through Boston College’s doors and emerged changed, equipped, and ready. You’re part of a community that believes in lifting each other up, in creating opportunities, in brightening not just our own lives but the lives of those around us.”

The Worshipful The Mayor of Boston, Councillor Barrie Pierpoint, also shared an inspiring message about his own career and the College’s vital role in the local community, saying, “Boston College isn’t just an educational institution - it is the beating heart of opportunity for our town. For 60 years, it’s been giving people from our area hope, opening doors, and transforming lives. It’s been pivotal in ensuring that young people from Boston don’t just dream about their futures - they have the skills, confidence, and qualifications to make those dreams a reality.”

Among those Graduates celebrating was Keegan Nuttell-Cartwright, who gave an emotional and uplifting speech about his personal journey - from the College’s Foundation Provision to achieving his degree in Creative Arts. Reflecting on his growth, resilience, and his proud win at the College’s Film Festival, Keegan shared, “Standing on that front stage in full view of 155 people, talking to the public, staff, and students after the Film Festival - I never realised how loved and appreciated I was until that very night. It was a strange but thrilling experience to have gone from a passive observer to an active participant in the span of just three years. Looking back honestly, I never thought I would get this far. If I had to describe 2014 me, I’d say he was an uptight, introverted, jealous man who struggled with his emotions, wanting to grow up and experience what life had to offer beyond his bedroom and the four walls he saw every day. But if I were to describe 2025 me, I’d say I am laid-back, considerate, friendly, and approachable - someone who’s easy to talk to. A man who’s able to take ownership of his life by doing things that truly make him happy. I now work at Boston College full-time as a Learning Support Assistant, helping students. I volunteer at Endeavour FM discussing films as the Film Fellow, and I dabble in freelance videography and photography from time to time.”

Adding a special touch to the day, current HE Performing Arts student Amelia Salmon delivered a stunning vocal performance of ‘This is Me’ from The Greatest Showman, filling St Botolph’s with music and meaning before each graduate took to the stage to receive their certificates from Amy Baraniak, University of Derby, and Claire Foster.

To close the ceremony, Claire expressed heartfelt thanks to the College’s academics, saying, “You are the heart of Boston College. You don’t just teach subjects, you inspire minds. You don’t just mark assignments, you nurture potential. You don’t just deliver courses. You transform lives. And every graduate here today has been shaped by your expertise, your encouragement, and your unwavering commitment to their success.”

As the formal ceremony concluded, graduates and their families gathered in the stunning surroundings of St Botolph’s to celebrate, capture memories, and reflect on their achievements – marking the end of one chapter and the exciting beginning of the next.

Boston College extends its warmest congratulations to every graduate of 2025 and wishes them every success as they take their next steps into the future. If their stories have inspired you, explore Boston College’s University Level courses, and begin your own transformative educational journey today.