Steve McClaren tells York graduates ‘well done’ at Minster

He addressed more than 120 degree and higher-level students from York College & University Centre at their graduation ceremony at York Minster.

In his speech, Mr McClaren quoted his former mentor Sir Alex Ferguson, who once told him: “Top players, top people and successful people only need two words – well done.”

Mr McClaren said: “So, to every student, along with your families, friends and teachers, I’d like to say to you all – well done.”

He also spoke about growing up in York and riding his bike past the Minster on his way to school, recalling stories from his father who worked on the cathedral’s roof and walls, and reflecting on his own son’s graduation at the same venue.

The ceremony celebrated students from a wide range of courses, including those from the York School of Art and Institute of Technology, as well as programmes in business, teacher training, hair and beauty, construction, early years, esports and engineering.

Ken Merry, principal and chief executive of York College & University Centre, commended the graduates for their hard work and resilience.

Mr Merry said: “Education can be life-changing, it can be life-defining.

“I would not be where I am today if it was not for a strong education and the opportunities that this has presented to me.”

From left-to-right: George Garside, Grace Marris, Daniel Ellwood, Abi Horton, Jack Somerville and Robyn Bradley with their York College & University Centre Graduation awards and certificates in York Minster (Image: Supplied)

He encouraged graduates to continue pursuing learning, quoting Dr Seuss: “The more that you read, the more things that you will know, the more that you learn, the more places you’ll go.”

The ceremony also included a procession from the Merchant Taylors’ Hall, led by York Town Crier Ben Fry.

Special awards were presented to six graduates for outstanding achievement.

Abi Horton, who studied media make-up, special effects and hair design, received the Principal’s Prize.

Robyn Bradley was awarded the Governors’ Award for her achievements as an HNC Engineering for England student.

Other winners included Grace Marris, who received the York School of Art Outstanding Achievement Award, and Daniel Ellwood, who received the Professional Studies Outstanding Achievement Award.

George Garside won the Progression Outstanding Achievement Award, and Jack Somerville was honoured with the Institute of Technology Outstanding Achievement Award.

Mr Merry urged graduates to approach the future with the same commitment they showed in their studies.

He said: “If you do that, there will be no end to the remarkable things you can achieve in your life and career.”