Military and Defence students from the Air & Space Institute (ASI), Peterborough College and Stamford College graduated at the prestigious RAF Cranwell on Monday 22 June, marking the end of their further education journeys and the beginning of their promising careers.
With a focus on military pathways, graduates' friends, families and industry partners watched the aspiring aviators cross the stage during the ceremony, celebrating their dedication, skill and ambition.
Mark Locking, CEO and Principal of Lincoln College Group, said: “Another year, and another talented cohort ready to enter the aviation industry.
“We pride ourselves at Lincoln College Group on preparing students for their next steps by inspiring and empowering individuals to uncover their potential through countless valuable opportunities, especially through our partnership with the RAF, which helps foster a culture of ambition and success.”
Rachel Nicholls, CEO and Principal of Inspire Education Group, said: "Congratulations to all graduates from this year’s Air & Space Institute and Air & Defence College programmes.
"These achievements reflect the hard work, professionalism and ambition of our students, as well as the strength of the partnership between Inspire Education Group, Lincoln College Group and the RAF. Together, we are creating exceptional opportunities for young people to develop the skills, knowledge and confidence needed to succeed in the defence and aerospace sectors.
"We are immensely proud of our graduates and look forward to seeing the contribution they will make to these vital industries in the years ahead."
Group Captain Steve Harrison MSc MCGI RAFR said: “Today, we celebrate the outstanding achievements of the Class of 2026, from the Air & Space Institute and Air & Defence Colleges of Peterborough and Stamford.
"These dedicated individuals have successfully completed their military studies and now stand ready to take the next steps in their careers. Through commitment, resilience and ambition, they have demonstrated the qualities needed to succeed in the evolving defence sector. We congratulate them on this significant milestone and wish them every success as they embark on the next stage of their professional journey.”
During the ceremony, each college proudly recognised outstanding students who had gone above and beyond in their studies, celebrating excellence, peer support and personal drive. Award categories included Student of the Year, the Students’ Student Award and the In Pursuit of Excellence Award.
At ASI Newark, student Ellie Parker was recognised as Student of the Year, while Grantas Murauskas received the In Pursuit of Excellence Award and Stanley Bradley was honoured with the Students’ Student Award.
Industry partner Quiet Tiger Aviation presented the Best Student Pilot Award to student X for their exceptional attitude and positivity during flight training.
At Peterborough College, Tiago Ferreira was named Student of the Year, Luke Silley received the Students’ Student Award, and Alex Mann received the In Pursuit of Excellence Award.
At Stamford College, Kai Nikos received the Student of the Year Award, Louis Rowcroft was presented with the Students’ Student Award, and Isaac Sheridan received both the In Pursuit of Excellence Award and the overall IEG Air & Defence Excellence Award.
The Air & Space Institute also scooped the Bailey Trophy. Following a series of student fitness tests throughout the year, scores were totalled and ranked across all three colleges based on the overall mean time.
Congratulations to all ASI, Stamford College and Peterborough College students who graduated this year.
