Sheep farmer flocks to get degree

A former sheep farmer rounded off a complete career change when she picked up a teaching qualification this week.

Sue Jones, of Corwen, collected her Certificate in Education (Post-Compulsory Education and Training) at Glyndŵr University’s awards ceremonies on Thursday 30 October.

Sue, a lecturer at Llysfasi College, said: “The day has been fantastic. The sense of presence of the occasion was even bigger than I expected.

“It’s all about lifelong learning - I’m 49 now and I’m just getting a degree. My son’s 19 and doing a maths degree and I’m just graduating from university, but there’s a real sense of achievement whatever age you are.

“It’s been hard work studying full time and working but it’s all been worth it – today has been wonderful.

“Only a few years ago I was looking after 700 sheep on a farm. I still keep a few pigs, chickens and sheep but you have to be diverse, move with the times and do whatever you want to do. The qualification I’ve got now will benefit me so much in the future. I hope I’ve given my son a good example to follow of what you can achieve.”

Son Robert said: “I’m very proud of her. It just shows that whatever age you are you can still come to university, you can still learn and you can still improve on what you already know.”

Glyndŵr University held four awards ceremonies over two days, formally recognising the achievements of more than 1,000 students.

Graduates were also given a special commemorative coin to mark the first awards ceremonies at the University, formed in July when the North East Wales Institute of Higher Education was granted full university status.

Professor Michael Scott said: “My congratulations go to everyone on their achievements. I am proud to be able to celebrate success with all of our graduates, and to acknowledge the hard work which each individual has put in to achieve their degree.

“Our graduates are the future, the future workforce for the local, regional, national and world economy. Whichever direction their careers take after today, I wish them the very best.”