July 21, 2014 11.17 am This story is over 115 months old

Mum and daughter to graduate in Lincoln together

Two generations, one graduation: A mother and daughter will be awarded their degrees together when they graduate from Bishop Grosseteste University.

On Wednesday, July 23, graduates from Bishop Grosseteste University will gather at Lincoln Cathedral to receive their degrees – and among them is mother and daughter Athena Pears and Gillian Bush.

Athena (21) will be graduating with an honours degree in Education Studies and English, and just a few hours later her mother Gillian (44) will be awarded a masters degree in Education.

Athena, from Revesby, was inspired by her parents who both have careers in education. She says she has a passion for working with people with special needs has also ventured into a career within education.

Athena currently works as a support worker at Linkage College in Toynton near Spilsby, which is part of the Linkage Community Trust. She managed to secure her job before graduating.

She said: “I’ve had a fantastic learning experience at BGU and I’m so happy to see my hard work – and my mum’s – pay off.

“Not many people get to say they graduated with their parents. I am so proud of my mum and her achievement; I keep showing her masters thesis to everyone. I’m now considering following in her footsteps and doing a masters in Education at BGU in the future myself.”

Gillian, also from Revesby, studied for her masters degree part-time for three years while working at Boston College as Programme Area Manager and Higher Education Co-ordinator.

“I decided to study at BGU because of its excellent reputation and quality of education”, said Gillian. “I was given the option to tailor my modules to facilitate my career development and lifestyle.

“As much as it was a struggle having to juggle my career and education the staff at BGU were helpful and supportive, which I am very grateful for.

“It is a great privilege to graduate on the same day as my daughter. I am so proud of Athena and I’m excited to celebrate with her.

“I am now focused on putting the knowledge I’ve received into practice.”