Our new students have joined our Durham University community, with an official welcome at our traditional Matriculation ceremonies in Durham Cathedral.
At the ceremony, our Vice-Chancellor and Warden, Professor Karen O’Brien was joined by Abigail Taylor, Durham Students' Union President and Professor Nathan Sempala-Ntege, our Dean of Colleges.
They extended congratulations to the new students, offering a warm welcome to our historic city and the beautiful North East of England. Professor O’Brien highlighted that they were not only joining one of the oldest and most prestigious institutions in the UK, but also one which has recently been named The Times and Sunday Times University of the Year 2026.
Vice-Chancellor and Warden, Professor Karen O-Brien (foreground; left) addresses matriculating students in Durham Cathedral. Dean of Colleges, Professor Nathan Sempala-Ntege stands to her right.
Our students join a vibrant academic community which is home to world-leading, innovative staff. Researchers from across the sciences, business, arts, and humanities are addressing pressing environmental, social, and governance challenges, and helping to shape the world. Our incoming students will benefit from their expertise and learn how to think critically, listen deeply, argue respectfully, and act responsibly.
The range of clubs and societies available was also brought to our new students’ attention. Professor Sempala-Ntege invited them to try something different, whether through their College, or a University society. And with at least 300 societies, including e-sports, Bollywood, and high level British Universities and Colleges Sport (BUCS) sports teams, our new students will be spoilt for choice.
College societies were mentioned, as was our collegiate system. Acting as a home-from-home, our Colleges provide a tight-knit community crossing staff and students. The connections our students make whilst here often continue long beyond studies - many of our alumni remember their College with affection.
Upon exiting the Cathedral, returning students from each college celebrated the new arrivals with banners, music and singing.
Matriculating students from University College are welcomed in the College's courtyard.
"I’m so delighted to welcome you all to Durham University, whether you are an undergraduate, postgraduate, within the UK, or from the many countries that are represented at this University; you are extremely welcome.
"Congratulations on getting into Durham. Your time here will probably feel like it passes at a rate of knots, and I firmly encourage you to make the most of it. Whether you get involved in your College community, join one of our hundreds of societies, or simply immerse yourself in your studies, I hope that your time at Durham will be memorable and fulfilling.
"There's a lot to choose from, and I will be here to congratulate you at the end when you come back to this beautiful Cathedral to graduate."
- Professor Karen O'Brien, Vice-Chancellor and Warden of Durham University.
Matriculation is a day of celebration - a rite of passage as students formally join Durham University. It refers to the official registration of students on the University’s roll, marking their integration into the academic community.
This special day signifies the beginning of a new chapter for students and highlights the unique experience of being part of the Durham community.
Durham is a special place with an intimacy and history that provides a unique experience and place to grow; from globally outstanding teaching and research to an extraordinary collegiate community that stays with students throughout their lives.
The Matriculation ceremonies took place on Tuesday 30 September and Wednesday 1 October.
Students join the ceremonies in their College groups celebrating their official membership of those unique communities. As part of the ceremony, one undergraduate and one postgraduate student from each College signed the Matriculation book on behalf of the new intake.
South College student Ruby Clarke signs the Matriculation Book, with South College student Emily Stewart (left), Bedel and Senior Manager - Performing Arts Nicola Candlish (second from left), and South College Principal, Professor Tim Luckhurst (right).
Durham offers a truly unique experience, combining its rich history and close-knit community with globally outstanding teaching and research. This intimate environment creates a special place for personal and academic growth, and the University’s extraordinary collegiate structure leaves a lasting impression on students.
With access to leading scholars and a wide range of opportunities in sports, arts, and beyond, students at Durham are empowered to achieve outstanding things both during their time at the University and across the globe as part of our vast alumni community.
At Durham, we challenge and we open minds. We support our students to become extraordinary, whatever their background is.
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