Mature couple both win first-class honours degrees

Not only have Christopher and Susan Ball, both earned first-class honours and they have also been presented with Adult Learners awards. The couple, aged 31 and 30, studied for degrees in sport and exercise studies and accountancy respectively at Huddersfield University.

While completing their degrees they both worked to support their two children, seven and ten, and also cared for Mrs Ball's disabled parents. They also had to cope with the loss of Mrs Ball's step-father who died in their final year. Balancing those life pressures while earning first-class degrees earned them both Kirklees Adult Learner Awards.

Mrs Ball, who has worked at an accountancy firm through her degree, earning a promotion to manager, said: "Being nominated for the award was a bit of a surprise at first, and the awards ceremony was very nerve-wracking but I do feel a great sense of achievement and it's nice to have that recognised.

"Having a good qualification to my name means that I can achieve much more, and I look forward to what the future holds.

"The reason I wanted to come to university was to give a better life to my children. Although it has been hard – at times, extremely hard – it has been worth it because I know I have the qualifications to ensure I can provide the very best for my family."

Her husband worked as a machine operator before starting his degree but now hopes his qualification will mark the beginning of a new career.

"Doing a full-time degree course hasn't been easy, but the support from the university has been brilliant, and we are both now in a position where we can earn a living by doing what we enjoy," he said.

"Our achievement has already had an effect on our children, who have already started talking about what they want to study at university. It's great to know that not only have we provided them with practical support, but we're also influencing their aspirations to strive for more in life."