Double Graduation success for Blackburn cousins

Blackburn cousins Michelle Shaw and Kelly Shaw had more than one reason to celebrate after they both graduated from Blackburn University Centre at the same ceremony. 

The cousins, both 21, who had spent the last 18 years of their lives in the same education establishments, celebrated the next step in their careers with their family at their graduation ceremony at King George's Hall last week. 

The pair had been through every step of their education journeys together, from starting out in nursery at Meadowhead Community Infant School & Nursery before going to Meadowhead Junior School, then to Walton-le-Dale High School, before enrolling at Blackburn College. 

Michelle, graduated with a commendation in Disability Studies BA (Hons), while Kelly graduated with a commendation in Criminology and Criminal Justice BA (Hons). 

Michelle said: “It’s been lovely to be able to graduate with Kelly after going through education together, although we weren’t on the same course. 

“I have autism and other disabilities and wanted to learn more about other conditions, and how other people view people with disabilities. I’m so pleased to have graduated, I'm delighted as it’s a big achievement. I’m now hoping to go into a job where I can help young people with disabilities. 

“During the pandemic it was really difficult because I also lost my dad to cancer, but I have had a lot of support from my tutors and I have made life-long friends.” 

Kelly, who had a son whilst studying on the course said: “Michelle and I have been through nursery, school and high school together, so it’s been nice to also be at the same college and complete our degrees at the same.  

“I’ve absolutely loved my course. I had my son whilst I was still finishing off the course which made it more difficult, but I’m really pleased that I managed to finish the course and graduate.”