University Centre Shrewsbury (UCS) students and staff celebrated the end of a trailblazing year in 1920s style.

A Great Gatsby End of Year Ball and Awards Ceremony rounded off the pioneering period on Friday 10 June 2016.

The academic year began with the first undergraduates being welcomed to the institution and the opening of the doors to the learning and research centre at Guildhall, as well as the student accommodation at Mardol House.

During the year further milestones have included the setting up of the Student Voice – the UCS Student Council – and first year exams being completed.

Meanwhile students have joined sports clubs, have been working and volunteering at organisations in the town, representing UCS at civic events, and running events for charity.

A varied public events programme was also launched and continues to run, a community liaison group meets each term and the curriculum has expanded.

The End of Year Ball at Morris Hall featured a jazz band, Charleston dancers and awards nominated by students were presented to staff for the Most Inspiring Lecturer; Excellence in Teaching; Most Innovative Lecturer and Outstanding Support (Non-Academic).

Professor Anna Sutton, Provost of UCS, said:

“I am immensely proud of all of our students and staff who have made this groundbreaking academic year an unforgettable time and have all been fantastic ambassadors for University Centre Shrewsbury.

“We have formed a range of partnerships and cannot express how much we appreciate everyone’s support and enthusiasm for making the students and the institution part of county life.

“We’re excited about the months and years ahead, and look forward to continuing to grow in such a vibrant town with input from people across organisations and the area.”

History student Holly-Elizabeth Smith said:

“It isn’t an everyday occurrence to be able to say that you are part of – or the face of – the first undergraduate cohort of a new Higher Education Institution.

“It has been demanding because you cannot hide from lecturers or each other. But it’s special and it’s amazing to see staff and the community so supportive of us.

“It will be great to welcome the next year into University Centre Shrewsbury and into our home.”

Business Management student Bryony Lainton added:

“It has been a whirlwind year and I can’t believe it is over already. I’ve made some brilliant friends and too many memories to count.

“I’m so glad to be a part of something pioneering and can’t wait to share it with our new undergraduates in the autumn.”

UCS is a distinctive institution, focused on high-quality teaching and research, fostering entrepreneurship, contributing to the community and, ultimately, making a global impact.

A partnership between the University of Chester and Shropshire Council, it provides the ideal setting to study undergraduate and postgraduate courses, as well as offering unique opportunities for research and CPD.

Further information is available at www.ucshrewsbury.ac.uk, including details of postgraduate courses which started in autumn 2014.