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Postie Darren delivers himself a great degree
FIVE years ago, Peterborough postman Darren Challis thought studying for a GCSE was beyond his reach.
FIVE years ago, Peterborough postman Darren Challis thought studying for a GCSE was beyond his reach.After leaving school at 16 without qualifications, the 38-year-old, of Cissbury Ring, Werrington Village, Peterborough, got a job with Royal Mail, in Papyrus Road, Werrington, Peterborough.
But when he hit 30, he decided to switch careers, and was persuaded to take some GCSEs by a family member.
To his astonishment he passed both – maths with an A and English with a B.
He then enrolled in a degree course with the Open University (OU) and he, along with another Peterborough graduate, Biddy Bruce (76), of Francis Gardens, New England, Peterborough, as well as students across the region, collected their certificates at a graduation ceremony.
Mr Challis said the occasion, at Ely Cathedral, on Saturday, May 30, made him feel very proud.
He said: "I was astounded that I passed (my GSCEs) after always considering myself unable to achieve such qualifications.
"I then was told about the OU offering the opportunity to study for a degree at home, without A-levels.
"Well, five years later, I have just received my 2:2 in social science, and hope to train as a primary teacher.
"The OU has helped me achieve the unachievable – or so it appeared five years ago. I am very proud of myself."
Retired Biddy Bruce achieved a BA (Hons) in Humanities – finally allowing the learner to pursue a passion.
She said: "I followed an Open University course in the history of art, a subject which has been of interest to me throughout my life.
"It had originally been my intention to attend art college, but unfortunately circumstances changed and I followed a course in commerce.
"Although this gave me a career and, more importantly, an income, it did not fulfil my artistic ambitions.
"The course has widened my horizons and given me a greater understanding of the development of art throughout history."
The students who gathered in robes in the great marquee on the north side of Ely Cathedral each had a story to tell.
They were of all ages and came from all backgrounds.
Some had taken up to eight years to reach this moment, and many had to juggle their daily lives to find time to complete their course work around family commitments, job demands, and sometimes, ill health.
The OU's regional director for the East of England, Helen Wildman, said: "Graduation day is special for all of us.
"The OU staff and tutors take their commitment to the students very seriously, and those attending the graduation ceremony will derive especial pleasure from the afternoon as they watch the students step forward to receive their hard-won degrees."
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Saturday 26 May 2012
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