Westminster Kingsway graduates celebrate with a bang

Around 200 students and apprentices donned in mortar boards and gowns have been awarded their graduation credentials in front of teachers, staff, parents and guests at ceremonies at Westminster Kingsway College’s Victoria Centre.

Both the classes of 2021 and 2020 who completed courses in culinary arts, kitchen and larder, hospitality and events, patisserie and restaurant service were honoured at separate ceremonies after last year’s graduation was cancelled due to the COVID pandemic.

Scrolls were presented by assistant principal Terry Tinton, Paul Jervis, head of school for Hospitality and Culinary Arts and Sharon Barry, head of school for Hospitality Apprenticeships.

Awards were also presented to the best and most improved graduates of 2021 including the Student of the Year on Professional Chef, Pastry Chef and Restaurant Service diplomas.

The ceremonies also saw professional chefs Ben Purton, Daniel Ayton, Selin Kiazim, Ben Murphy and Andrew Wong each receive an Honorary Fellowship of Westminster Kingsway College.

Students banged pots and pans to welcome the new graduates into the alumni, a tradition started by deputy executive principal Gary Hunter when he was head of school.

Speaking at both ceremonies, he said: “To all our graduates I would like to convey my warmest congratulations on what is a brilliant personal achievement.

“I know that the road to this graduation has been very demanding, with many seemingly impossible difficulties to navigate along the way. But this, as you may possibly acknowledge, could well prove to have been a valuable part of your education experience too.

“I hope that you have fully enjoyed your time at the college and will profit from your experience and training here in the years to come. I urge to you to keep in contact with the college and support us over future years. You are all members of the Westminster family.”