The Manchester Access Programme (MAP) celebration evenings took place in the University’s Whitworth Hall on the 6 & 7 December 2017. These are held annually to acknowledge the hard work and dedication of the students on the programme and to celebrate their achievement in completing MAP. This achievement is recognised by presenting them with a certificate in a traditional graduation ceremony. The celebration evenings were also a chance for parents and carers to join the MAP team in congratulating their sons and daughters on completing MAP.

The evening featured a keynote speech from Richard Cotton, Director of Student Recruitment and International Development and featured short speeches from MAP alumni on their experiences and benefits of the programme and studying a course at The University of Manchester. MAP students were then invited up on to the stage to collect their certificates and the ceremony was followed by an opportunity to congratulate each other and take celebratory photos in graduation gowns.

Jaiesh Lilley, a current MAP student said: “MAP to me has been an amazing opportunity to experience life as a student and to broaden my experiences. The programme offers unprecedented personal development whilst providing a brilliant opportunity to make friends, research and meet with academics. MAP truly is a reflection of Manchester’s commitment to ensuring talented individuals from all walks of life are given an equal opportunity at success.”

The event was a great success and we look forward to watching our MAP students succeed with their future ambitions