TWO students from the University of Worcester will graduate from their studies next week with a First Class Honours degree.
Psychology student, Grace Harris, 21 years old from Headless Cross said: “To achieve this despite all the challenges the pandemic imposed feels like a massive achievement and I am very proud of myself.”
During her degree, Grace developed a passion for educational psychology, and she has been inspired to pursue a career supporting the education and mental health of children and young people.
The former St Augustine’s High School pupil would like to work towards completing a doctorate in educational psychology and becoming a chartered educational psychologist.
She is currently working as a SEN (Special Educational Needs) teaching assistant at a school for children with special educational needs and disabilities and said she had learnt a lot.
“It has showed me how psychology works in practice,” she said. “Every day I see the influence that attachment and different ecological systems can have upon a child’s personal and educational development, and this has furthered my desire to pursue a career where I can support these children.”
Thirty-two-year-old Leigh Ginn, from Boehm Drive, said she was thrilled to have completed her studies.
“Going into higher education with two small children was very daunting so I am very proud to have achieved a First Class Honours degree,” she said.
Leigh has now started a Schools Direct PGCE with the University with the aim of becoming a PE teacher.
“Having finished my undergraduate degree here and experiencing the amazing facilities and supportive staff, Worcester was my only option for my Initial Teacher Training year,” she said.
The University’s Deputy Vice Chancellor and Provost, Professor Sarah Greer, said: “The class of 2021 showed remarkable resilience and determination in the face of some unprecedented challenges during their studies, due to very difficult external circumstances.
“They have all done so well in earning a degree from Worcester, through their hard work, perseverance and dedication. This should stand them in good stead as they move into their chosen careers. Our students who earned a First Class Honours should feel particularly proud of themselves – it is an outstanding achievement.”
