More than 1,000 graduates celebrated in Leeds
Global Banking School (GBS) celebrated the achievements of more than 1,000 graduates at its Leeds ceremonies this week, marking the first time the higher education provider has held a dedicated graduation ceremony in the city.
Held on Monday June 29, the ceremonies recognised students completing career-focused degrees across business, digital technologies, construction, healthcare management and other high-demand sectors.
Almost 90 per cent of GBS graduates in Leeds came from some of the most disadvantaged communities in the region, reflecting the education provider’s contribution to improving access to higher-skilled employment across the city.
The award-winning institution, which has two city campuses in Wellington Place and Great George Street, helps open doors to higher education for people who may not have taken a traditional route into university – with the average Leeds graduate aged 38.
Among the graduates was Lucineia Rodrigues da Silva, from Peterlee, who returned to education after a 25-year career in healthcare to pursue a degree with GBS.
Studying Healthcare Management at GBS helped Lucineia build her confidence, leadership and critical thinking skills while inspiring a new ambition to establish the Blossom Girls Centre - a community initiative designed to help young girls build confidence, develop life skills and realise their potential.
James Kennedy, CEO at GBS said: “Graduation is a significant milestone and a celebration of the hard work, resilience and ambition of our students. Here in Leeds, we are proud to support learners from a wide range of backgrounds, many of whom are returning to education later in life or taking a non-traditional route into higher education.
“Our focus is on helping students develop the skills and confidence they need to progress into higher-skilled careers and contribute to the local economy across Leeds and the wider region.
“Lucineia’s journey is a fantastic example of how education can transform lives, creating new opportunities and enabling individuals to make a positive impact within their communities.”
Lucineia added: “Education changed the way I see my future. Through GBS, I learned that growth never has an age limit and that when we invest in ourselves, we gain the power to positively influence the lives of others.”
The ceremonies were attended by Mark Sewards MP, Labour MP for Leeds South West and Morley, who joined graduates and families in celebrating their achievements.
Mark Sewards MP said: "It was a pleasure to see so many graduates recognised for their achievements here in Leeds. Expanding access to higher education and developing skilled local talent is essential to the future prosperity of our region.
“Congratulations to every graduate on reaching this important milestone, and I wish them every success in the careers and businesses they go on to build."
The event underlined the growing importance of higher education in Leeds in widening access to opportunity and helping develop the workforce needed across key regional sectors.