AFTER all the hard work comes the celebration.

The academic and vocational achievements of Sparsholt College class of 2015 were celebrated at their annual graduation ceremony.

Winchester Cathedral provided the stunning backdrop as families, friends and lecturers proudly watched students mark the successful end of their time at the college.

Principal Tim Jackson presided over the two ceremonies, which awarded the students with their qualifications.

During his address he reflected on Sparsholt’s achievements highlighting the exciting developments within the faculties.

He said: “The past academic year has been another highly successful one. Over 2,000 qualifications have been awarded with around 770 of these being presented today.

"Many students from our level 3 programmes progress to Sparsholt higher education courses, recognising that the quality of the offer and the extent of the industry contacts and career openings available through this college are second to none.”

Joining Mr Jackson was Guest of Honour and speaker Professor Graham Galbraith, Vice-Chancellor University of Portsmouth.

Before the presentation of Diplomas, Certificates and Degree Awards, he addressed the congregation saying: “The fact is our nation needs people like you, with politicians of all sides recognising that the big challenge for the future is ensuring that we have the right people with the right skills, attitudes and creativity to grow our economy and maintain our competitiveness in the world.

"Your Sparsholt College and University qualifications have real value, in the UK, and beyond, as it provides the knowledge and skills that are desperately needed.”

Graham joined a number of special guests including chairman of governors, Michael Coombes, the Mayor of Winchester, Councillor Angela Clear and Canon George Medd.

Amy Robbins who was awarded her BSc in Equine Studies (Hons) gave a vote of thanks on behalf of the students.

Her rousing speech encapsulated the positive experience she and her fellow students have had at Sparsholt: “I decided to study at Sparsholt because I thought what better way is there to study animals than to be surrounded by them.

"The facilities at Sparsholt are amazing - putting theory into practice and the job openings are second to none.”

Amy concluded her speech by saying she will continue to study a Master’s Degree in Equine Behaviour, Performance and Training which includes a teaching module so she can pursue her ambitions to teach in the future.

Degrees awarded to students from Sparsholt were conferred by the University of Portsmouth, while Higher Education qualifications at the Andover campus are awarded by Southampton University, the Chartered Management Institute and the Association of Accounting Technicians.