Etiquette guides

ON THE DAY

Please arrive at the Guildhall in plenty of time
Ceremonies will run strictly to the times published
Please have your e-ticket ready for scanning on arrival
To minimise disruption to other graduates and their guests we may deny latecomers entry and move you to a different ceremony

It can take up to 30 minutes to collect your gown
Have your booking confirmation ready to show and please arrive in plenty of time to allow our
gowning marshals to assist you with the fitting of your academic dress

Pre-booking your photography is recommended; however, you can purchase a package on the day
Please prioritise getting to your ceremony on time; the photographers can be flexible and accommodate you later in the day if necessary
You can do this before or after your ceremony but make sure you have enough time to get to the ceremony venue

Doors open an hour before the ceremony starts. Make sure you are in your seat at least ten minutes before the ceremony.
Ushers will direct you to your assigned seat
Please remain in your allocated seat throughout the ceremony

Please celebrate this special day with kindness and respect for fellow guests, graduands and university staff
If you are able, please stand when instructed, for the Academic Procession (on and off stage)
Graduands should follow hte instructions of UoP stewards at all times as required
Graduands should cross the stage when their name is called
You should shake hands, nod or namste as you prefer
Please feel free to clap and cheer for all graduands
UoP stewards will indicate when to leave the hall

Enjoy a complimentary glass of prosecco or non-alcoholic alternative with your lecturers, family, and friends
Make the most of the fun photo opportunities and share them on social media using #UoPGrad
Have a go on the tombola in support of the Student Hardship Fund and other games
Other drinks and snacks are available for purchase (card only)

Remember to remove chewing gum and earphones
As your name is called, shake hands, nod or namaste at the Presiding Officer and Executive Dean as you cross the stage
To ensure respect to all graduands, please remain in the hall until the ceremonyconcludes
This is a non-political, inclusive event. Personal expression is welcome; however, we kindly ask that large items such as banners or flags are not displayed during the event to ensure a comfortable and inclusive space for all participants.

Children are welcome at your Graduation Ceremony.

Children under 14 must be accompanied by a guest aged 18+
Children must remain seated throughout the ceremony
Tickets must be purchased for all children
Children cannot accompany graduates as they cross the stage
Please ask the Guildhall staff for access to the baby feeding room
Pushchairs and prams cannot be taken into the auditorium and must be left in the Octagon on the ground floor. All items are left at your own risk
If a child becomes distressed/restless during the ceremony, please take them to the Portsmouth Room on the first floor where there is a live stream playing in a more relaxed environment
Young children may find the day to be quite long, so graduates are encouraged to arrange childcare so they can relax and fully enjoy their special day