On Monday 20th October 2025, more than a hundred proud South Bank Colleges graduates crossed the stage of London’s iconic Royal Festival Hall to celebrate passing their courses — marking the successful completion of their Level 3 and Level 4 qualifications.
The day formed part of the wider London South Bank University (LSBU) Group Graduation Ceremonies, with South Bank Colleges opening the day’s celebrations in the morning before the university students took the stage in the afternoon. Though rain drizzled across the South Bank, the atmosphere inside was radiant; filled with applause, laughter, and a tangible sense of pride. As one graduate put it, “It may have been grey outside, but it was sunny in here all day.”
A Morning of Joy and Reflection
The ceremony began with the Executive Principal of South Bank Colleges, Fiona Morey, declaring the proceedings open.
“I would like to welcome our graduates, their friends and families,” she said. “These ceremonies are more than events, they are rituals of achievement that will live with you for years to come. Take a moment to pause, breathe, and feel that wall of achievement you’ve built through your studies.”
Fiona was followed by Monica Marongiu, Principal of Lambeth College, who spoke movingly about the collective effort behind every student’s success.
“Graduates, you have worked tirelessly,” she said. “You’ve made sacrifices, balanced challenges, and given your best. But none of us make this journey alone. To the families, friends, and supporters here today, thank you. Your encouragement has made an enormous difference.”
Monica also paid tribute to the teachers and staff who have helped make South Bank Colleges a uniquely supportive community.
“We all remember the teachers who changed our lives,” she said. “Their influence stays with us forever. Our staff — both teaching and support — are the heart of our college. They are the reason this day is possible.”
Inspirational Words from College Leaders
After the official welcome, the stage was handed to Craig Hanlon-Smith, Principal of London South Bank Technical College (LSBTC), who gave an impassioned address about readiness, kindness, and change.
Craig began by reminding students of the significance of their achievements:
“You are sitting here today because you are ready,” he told them. “You have skills, communication, and a qualification — a ticket that will take you into the next phase of learning or the world of work.”
He shared a story about a plumber who once fixed his flat, explaining that true success lies not only in technical ability but in how we treat others.
“It’s not just about skill,” he said, “but about how we behave. Who we are really matters. We live in challenging times, but we are not here to wait for the storm clouds to pass, because you are the future.”
Quoting President Barack Obama, Craig added:
“Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for.”
He reflected on his own journey, marking 35 years since he first arrived in London as a student, and encouraged graduates to use their education to drive positive change in their communities.
“Today is the first day of the rest of your life,” he concluded. “Go forward with courage, kindness, and commitment — you are the change that we need.”
Celebrating Diversity and Leadership
The ceremony also featured a heartfelt contribution from Trevor Gordon, Director of the college's Black Leadership Programme, who offered words of encouragement to the graduates.
“The biggest applause today goes to you,” Trevor told the audience. “Take a moment to really let it sink in, this is one of the best days of your life. Celebrate it. Enjoy it. You’ve proven what you’re capable of, and now the world is waiting for the next chapter that you will write.”
Trevor’s speech served as both celebration and challenge; a reminder that leadership takes many forms, and that South Bank Colleges’ graduates are already showing what inclusive, confident, community-minded leadership looks like.
Honouring a Legacy: Dr Wayne Wright
One of the most emotional moments of the morning came with the presentation of an Honorary Doctorate to Wayne Wright, the recently retired Principal of London South Bank Technical College.
The award, conferred by London South Bank University, recognised Wayne’s outstanding contribution to education, community development, and leadership in technical and vocational learning.
Before his citation was read, a short video played showing highlights of Wayne’s long career — from his early days as an economics teacher to his role in establishing the Nine Elms campus of LSBTC.
Accepting the award to thunderous applause, Wayne gave a deeply personal and reflective speech.
“Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine I’d be standing here receiving such an honour,” he said. “I’ve spent my entire career in further education — and these last four and a half years, as Deputy Principal and then as the founding Principal of London South Bank Technical College, have been the most rewarding of all.”
He paid tribute to his family, colleagues, and students, and spoke warmly of his pride in the new Nine Elms campus.
“I’ll never forget the look on our students’ faces when they first walked into that incredible building — the excitement, the pride, the sense of belonging. That moment alone made it all worthwhile.”
Wayne concluded with his hopes for the college’s future under new leadership.
“It’s bittersweet to retire when there’s so much promise ahead, but I know the college is in capable hands. I can’t wait to see what comes next.”
The audience rose to their feet in a standing ovation, celebrating both his honorary title — Dr Wayne Wright — and his years of devoted service.
A Shared Journey
As graduates posed for photographs, hugged their tutors, and celebrated with family, it was clear that the ceremony represented far more than certificates and gowns. It was a celebration of perseverance, community, and transformation: the culmination of years of study and sacrifice.
South Bank Colleges’ participation in the LSBU Group’s graduation events reflects the strong partnership between education at every level — from college to university — and the shared belief that learning can change lives.
For the graduates of 2025, it was a moment to look back with pride and forward with purpose.
“You are the change that we seek,” as Craig Hanlon-Smith told them. “And you are the change that we need.”
Congratulations, Class of 2025
From the first rain-spotted morning arrivals at the Royal Festival Hall to the final group photos by the Thames, the day was filled with pride, laughter, and the unshakeable sense that these graduates are ready for what comes next.
On behalf of everyone at South Bank Colleges, Lambeth College, and London South Bank Technical College, congratulations to all our 2025 graduates. You are the future, and we couldn’t be prouder of you.
