I would like to propose a review of the venue currently used for university graduation ceremonies, with a view to ensuring that this milestone is marked in a manner that appropriately reflects its academic and personal significance for graduating students and their families.

Since the COVID-19 period, graduations have been held in the Oastler Building, a space that functions primarily as a lecture theatre and is familiar to many students as part of their routine academic experience. While this arrangement may have been necessary and pragmatic in recent years, graduating in a space so closely associated with everyday teaching risks diminishing the sense of occasion and achievement that a graduation ceremony is intended to convey.

Historically, the university has made use of venues such as the campus church and the town hall—settings that are distinct from students’ day-to-day learning environments and which clearly signal the importance, formality, and celebratory nature of the occasion. These venues provided a clear transition from student to graduate, marking the culmination of years of academic commitment in a way that felt both memorable and meaningful.

Given the level of tuition fees paid by students each year, and in light of the practices adopted by many comparable universities that continue to use civic or ceremonial venues for graduations, I believe it would be timely to consider whether an alternative to an on-campus lecture theatre could be reinstated for future ceremonies. Such a move would demonstrate the university’s commitment to recognising student achievement, enhancing the graduate experience, and upholding the prestige associated with its awards.

I would therefore respectfully suggest that the university explore the feasibility of returning to a dedicated ceremonial venue—whether on or off campus—for upcoming graduation events from 2026 onwards. I am confident that this would be warmly received by students, families, and alumni alike, and would further strengthen the university’s reputation for valuing academic milestones.

Thank you for considering this proposal. I would be very happy to provide further thoughts or contribute to any consultation on this matter.