Celebrating Success at UKSA’s Further Education Graduation 2026

On Thursday 22 May, UKSA proudly celebrated the achievements of its Further Education students at our annual Graduation Ceremony in Cowes.

The event brought together students, staff, families and friends to recognise the hard work, determination and personal growth demonstrated throughout the academic year. Graduates from both Foundation and Advanced programmes were presented with certificates and awards, marking the successful completion of their studies and the next step in their maritime and watersports journeys.

We were delighted to welcome a number of special guests to join the celebrations, including UKSA Chief Executive Officer Cat Dixon, PO Louise Craig of the Royal Navy, PO (SEA) Ryan Scott MIoL, Fidelma Washington, Principal and Chief Executive Officer of The Isle of Wight College, and Vicky Egerton, Assistant Principal at The Isle of Wight College. Their presence helped make the occasion even more memorable for our graduating students and their families.

The ceremony was made extra special by guest artists Daysi and Amelia, whose performances helped create a fantastic atmosphere throughout the event.

The afternoon was an opportunity to reflect on the accomplishments of our students, many of whom have balanced demanding practical training, academic studies and residential life while developing the skills and confidence needed for future careers. There was a real sense of pride as students were recognised not only for their academic achievements, but also for their commitment, resilience, leadership and contribution to the UKSA community.

Family members and supporters joined the celebrations, sharing in the success of graduates who have spent the past year developing valuable industry skills both on and off the water. For many students, graduation marks the beginning of exciting opportunities within the maritime, watersports and outdoor education sectors, while others will continue their progression through further training and qualifications.

UKSA’s Further Education programmes are designed to equip young people with the practical experience, knowledge and personal development needed to thrive in their chosen careers. Graduation provides an opportunity to celebrate how far students have come and recognise the dedication that has brought them to this important milestone.

A huge congratulations goes to all of our graduates. We are incredibly proud of everything they have achieved and look forward to following their future successes within the maritime industry and beyond.

We would also like to extend a huge thank you to Jonny Crudge, UKSA’s photographer, for capturing the day so brilliantly. His photographs have preserved many of the special moments, achievements and celebrations from the event, allowing students, families and staff to look back on a memorable milestone in the graduates’ journeys.

A special thank you also goes to our Watersports Team for their invaluable support in setting up and packing down the event. Their hard work behind the scenes helped ensure the day ran smoothly and provided a fitting celebration for our students and their achievements.

Interested in where a Further Education course at UKSA could take you? From watersports instruction and yachting to superyacht careers and maritime training, UKSA offers a range of pathways designed to help young people turn their passion into a profession.

Parents, guardians and supporters played a huge role in helping our students reach this important milestone, and it was wonderful to see so many of them joining us to celebrate the achievements of the graduating class.

Please ask your young people to reach out to their tutors if they would like access to the full photo gallery from the day. In the meantime, here is a selection of photographs capturing some of the memorable moments from the celebration.