Norland celebrates 2026 graduation at historic Bath Abbey
31 March 2026
Norland proudly celebrated the achievements of its latest graduating students at its 2026 graduation ceremonies, held on 27 March at the iconic Bath Abbey and Guildhall.
The occasion marked the graduation of the 145th cohort of Norland Nannies alongside the latest degree graduates, bringing together students, families, friends and staff for a day of reflection, pride and celebration.
This year’s ceremonies also coincided with a significant moment in Norland’s almost 135-year history. As Norland takes the final steps in its application for university title, the institution continues its ambition to become the world’s first early childhood specialist university. The academic year has further strengthened Norland’s pioneering position with the launch of a new master’s programme, expanding its postgraduate provision in early childhood education and care.
Graduation represents a defining milestone for Norland students, recognising the successful completion of both rigorous academic study and professional training. As graduates cross the stage, they formally join Norland’s global alumni community and take their next steps into careers working with children and families across the world.
The morning ceremony celebrated the graduation of Set 146, who proudly donned the Norland graduation gown in its symbolic colours of brown, blue and gold to receive their BA (Hons) degree certificates adorned with Norland’s coat of arms.
In the afternoon, Set 145 marked the completion of the prestigious Norland diploma, following 12 months in paid employment as Newly Qualified Nannies. Wearing the iconic Norland uniform, diploma graduands received their certificates and badges and were formally awarded the esteemed title of Norlander, or Norland Nanny, recognising the completion of both Norland’s degree and unique four-year skills-based diploma.
Across both ceremonies, academic and professional excellence was recognised through a range of awards, including highest dissertation result, most improved student, highest average grades, and the valedictorian for outstanding student performance over the three years of the degree programme. Diploma awards celebrated fully qualified graduates who demonstrated exceptional care, compassion and professionalism during their Newly Qualified Nanny placement and adherence to the highest standards of practice.
Ceremony addresses were delivered by Emeritus Professor Eunice Lumsden who is Professor of Child Advocacy at the University of Northampton and Norlander Beth Luffman (Set 137), offering graduates words of encouragement as they embark on the next stage of their professional journeys.
Dr Janet Rose, Principal of Norland, said: “Graduation is always a proud and emotional moment for Norland. It celebrates not only academic and professional achievement, but also the resilience, commitment and personal growth our students show throughout their journey.
“We are immensely proud of everything they have achieved and look forward to seeing the impact they will make as Newly Qualified Nannies and as fully qualified Norland Nannies around the world.”
Founded in London in 1892 by education pioneer Emily Ward, Norland was the first educational establishment to offer formal childcare training, laying the foundations for the nursery nurse profession.
Today, Norland graduates continue to benefit from exceptional employment opportunities and lifelong career support, with demand for Norland-trained early years professionals consistently exceeding supply.
In March 2025, Norland’s achievement of full and permanent taught degree awarding powers marked a further milestone on its journey towards university title and its vision of global leadership in early childhood education and care.
