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Craven College graduation award to honour former colleague

Tuesday, 16 September 2025 08:45

Alix Coughlin

Craven College will hold its annual graduation ceremony on 19th September at Skipton Town Hall and Holy Trinity Church.

As part of the celebrations for the Class of 2025, the college will also reflect on the contribution of former lecturer Alix Coughlin, who passed away in October 2023.

An award named in her memory, the Alix Coughlin Award for Caring Professions, will be presented to a student who demonstrates commitment to their course and a passion for the Early Years sector.

The award recognises Alix’s role in developing the college’s foundation and honours degrees in Children’s Learning and Development.

Her family has also set up the Alix Coughlin Bursary Trust Fund to support students on Early Years courses.

The donation was made by her husband Greg, her children, and wider family.

Stephanie McKay, Head of Caring Professions at Craven College, said:

“Alix was well known and highly respected in the schools and nurseries in our area and previous graduates who became managers and deputy managers sent their new staff to Craven College to be taught by Alix.

"There is no higher endorsement than this.”

Hannah Puente, Lecturer in Early Years and one of this year’s graduates, said:

“Our cohort had the privilege – and the honour – of being the final group taught by Alix.

"She was not only an expert in early years education, but a passionate and gifted lecturer whose love for language development was infectious.

"Her knowledge, her care, and her ability to see potential in every one of us shaped our learning far beyond the classroom.”

The college has said both the award and the bursary will continue Alix’s legacy by supporting future students in Early Years education.

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