Posted: Tuesday 8 November 2011

Cabinet secretary lends his support with graduates particpating in first ever procession since Queen’s visit

Hundreds of locals came out in force to support this year's graduates from Kilmarnock College when they brought their celebrations out in to the street, in the first ever Graduation Ceremony Procession, from the Grand Hall to the College.

Following the ceremony in the Grand Hall, a local pipe band led the students along London Road, back to the Main Campus, Holehouse Road. Students from the College's Prepare for a Career in Uniformed Services course gained some hands-on experience by acting as marshals for the procession on the day.

Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning, Mike Russell, was unable to attend the event but sent a message of support for the College. He said: "I am very well aware of the success of Kilmarnock College and the positive impact it has on the lives of its students, their families and the local community.

"It is a terrific example of the way in which colleges can help transform lives. As you know, the Scottish Government is wholly committed to supporting the construction of a new building in Kilmarnock in the near future - one that will provide you with the space and surroundings you need to build on the achievements you are celebrating this weekend. Our unwavering commitment to that investment is consistent with this Government's support for Kilmarnock and its surrounding communities.

"I wish you the very best for a successful graduation ceremony."

Heather Dunk, Principal of Kilmarnock College, said: "This is the first time we've ever organised a procession to celebrate the students' achievements. I am delighted that so many members of the local community came out in force to support the students.

"The support from the Cabinet Secretary is a great boost to the College and is extremely reassuring for future learners, who will continue to have local access to high quality learning opportunities in state of the art facilities.

For further information on courses available at Kilmarnock College please call 01563 523501 or visit www.kilmarnock.ac.uk .

-Ends-
For more information, contact:
Joanna Wilson, Beattie Communications, 01698 787847/ joanna.wilson@beattiegroup.com  

Sarah Ballantyne, Beattie Communications, 01698 787859/ sarah.ballantyne@beattiegroup.com

<  Return to news