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A man with a beard dressed in graduation attire holds his certificate and smiles proudly to the camera.

Graduation FAQs

When should I book my place for the Graduation Ceremony?

We cannot guarantee a place for you and your guests if you have not completed the booking form and requested your robe and photography by Monday 23 June 2025.

Please note: If you do not collect your robe on the day, you can request a refund for your robe hire for up to 30 days after the event.
 

Do I have to wear a robe?

Yes – you must hire or buy a robe from Graduation Attire.
 

What should I wear under the robe?

Recommended dress for beneath the robes is a suit and tie for men and a plain dress or skirt/trouser suit for women.
 

How many guests can I bring?

Up to four guests may attend the ceremony. Please note, however, that due to restrictions on capacity, only two guests per student can attend the drinks reception.
 

Do guests have tickets?

You will need to book tickets for you and your guests. Guests who have tickets booked to attend the ceremony will be issued on arrival at the venue with event wrist bands.
 

What time should guests arrive?

Guest should arrive at least 30 minutes before the start of the ceremony.
 

How much is my robe?

To hire your hat, gown and hood, the cost of hire is £39.60.
 

Where do I collect my robe?

You should collect your robe from the Horseshoe Area of the Winter Gardens.
 

Where do I return my robe?

You should return your robe to the Horseshoe Area of the Winter Gardens. Please use the entrance closest to the Derham Lounge.
 

What time should I arrive?

Ceremony One – commences 12 noon
  • Arrival (register, collect robe, photography):
    earliest 9.00 am, latest 11.15am
Ceremony Two – commences 3.00pm
  • Arrival (register, collect robe, photography):
    earliest 12 noon, latest 2.15pm
     

Where is the venue?

Winter Gardens
Blackpool
FY1 1HL
 

Is there parking nearby?

There is a choice of public car parks available near to the Winter Gardens.  Find out more at Winter Gardens Blackpool.
 

Where to stay?

Blackpool has a variety of accommodation and there is something to match everyone’s preference find out more at Visit Blackpool.
 

Where to eat?

Blackpool has a vast selection of places to eat and drink, whatever your taste or pocket find out more at Visit Blackpool. As it is a busy time in Blackpool we do recommend booking a table.
 

Are there arrangements for access?

The Winter Gardens is equipped with a hearing loop and has wheelchair access. The awards platform is accessed via a ramp. If you have a disability or access requirement that would make access to the platform difficult then let us know by completing this field on your booking form and we will make appropriate arrangements. 

Alternatively you can email graduation@blackpool.ac.uk with full details of the requirements, your contact details and student number.
 

Will refreshments be available?

You will be able to purchase light refreshments such as tea, coffee, soft drinks and sandwiches from the Mazzei Café situated in the Floral Hall. Additionally, After your Graduation Ceremony we would like to welcome you and your guests to a celebratory drinks reception in the Derham Suite, Winter Gardens, for a complimentary glass of sparkling wine or orange juice.
 

Is photography permitted at the ceremony?

You can take photos, however, please be mindful not to disrupt the speeches. When the procession begins and throughout the duration of the ceremony guests must be seated.
 

I haven’t received my certificate?

If you have any queries regarding your certificate, please contact the Achievements Office:

Call: 01254 504177
Email: exams@blackpool.ac.uk.
 

Can I get a refund for my robe if I don’t attend the ceremony?

If you are unable to attend Graduation you can request a refund by completing a Refund Request form.

If requested 7 or more days prior to the ceremony, students will be entitled to a full refund.

If between 6 days and the day before the first ceremony, students are eligible for a 50% refund if they contact us via email of phone.

From the date of the ceremony onwards, students will not be eligible for a refund, including those that did not attend their ceremony.

If you have a query regarding a refund please contact Graduation Attire on:

Call: 01234 988880
Email: service@graduationattire.co.uk