On Friday 18th November, the British Academy of Film and Television Arts (BAFTA) played host to the 5th annual ESA Diploma Graduation ceremony, where we saw 53 students from across the UK, Switzerland, Ireland, Australia and South Africa presented with their diploma certificates by the ex-England and 2008 GB men’s hockey captain Ben Hawes.
Ben is one of the most capped players in hockey history and was key to Team GB hockey in three Olympic games. Ben was joined by ESA Chairman Karen Earl, and Course Director Peter Raymond.
Amongst the group, five students achieved distinction – Natasha Cabral, Charlie Dewhurst, Florian Kogler, Luke Roberts and Michael Sevenoaks. A special congratulations goes to Charlie Dewhurst, who won ESA’s Top Student and Top Set Brief Awards – the only student ever to do so in the Diploma’s history.
The ceremony was the culmination of seven months hard work by the undergraduates, who have all juggled busy careers with the demands of the course.
Commenting on the graduates and the quality of their work, ESA Chairman Karen Earl said “We’ve had another exceptional year that has seen students from across the world dig deep, and deliver an amazing portfolio of work that has enabled them to graduate from the ESA Diploma. I’m delighted that I got to meet so many of you at BAFTA, and I wish you every success in your future endeavours.”
Course Director Peter Raymond added “Undertaking the ESA Diploma requires dedication. Mixing study with a career isn’t easy, but this year’s graduates have proved, yet again, that with the right focus amazing things can be achieved. I’m very proud of everyone who graduated, and look forward to seeing their careers blossom and flourish over the coming years. Well done to you all!”
The Graduation ceremony was followed by a champagne reception and afternoon tea for all graduates and their guests.
As a final note, we would like to take this opportunity to thank our 2016 course sponsors – Activative, ICON, IMR, SportBusiness’ Sports Sponsorship Insider and Sport England.
2017 Course
Next year’s ESA Diploma course starts on the 20th January 2017, and there is a free introductory session that takes place in London on Tuesday 29th November. You can find more information about the introductory session here and further information about the 2017 ESA Diploma here.