Northern Regional College Celebrates Graduating Class Of 2025

Northern Regional College proudly celebrated the achievements of its Class of 2025 at this year’s Higher Education and Access Graduation Ceremony, held on Thursday 4th December at the Tullyglass House Hotel, Ballymena. The event brought together students, families, governors, staff, industry partners and invited guests for a day of recognition, inspiration and celebration.

Mel Higgins, Principal and Chief Executive of Northern Regional College, said,

“We were delighted to welcome around 600 graduates and guests to celebrate the outstanding talent, determination and achievements of the Class of 2025. Each of our graduates set ambitious goals, stayed focused and achieved their qualification, supported every step of the way by family, friends and the wider College community. Graduation is not only the highlight of the College calendar, but also one of my personal highlights each year, as it offers the privilege of witnessing our learners step confidently into the next chapter of their lives.”

Mel added,

“This past year has been one of real momentum for Northern Regional College, from opening our new £55 million Ballymena campus to continued growth in enrolments and strengthened industry partnerships. Our learners continue to inspire us with their determination, talent and ambition, and today is a celebration of everything they have achieved.”

This year’s ceremonies recognised graduates from across all College departments, including Advanced Technologies; Creative, Computing & Professional Industries; Health, Sport & Care; Access and Animal Management. The ceremonies also celebrated staff achievements, including those who completed their Post Graduate Certificate in Further Education, a testament to the College’s commitment to professional development and lifelong learning.

This year also marked the graduation of the first cohort of students completing the OCN Level 5 Diploma in Green Technologies, reflecting the College’s expanding leadership in sustainability and the green skills agenda. This milestone highlights the College’s ongoing commitment to equipping learners with future-focused skills that respond to the evolving needs of industry and society.

Graduates were encouraged to remain connected with the College as alumni, continuing to engage with opportunities for professional networking, further study and industry collaboration. The College takes pride in supporting learners not only during their studies, but throughout their careers, helping them adapt and thrive in a changing world.

Northern Regional College extends its heartfelt congratulations to all graduates of the Class of 2025 and looks forward to sharing in their continued success as they progress into employment, further education or new professional pathways.