Mum graduates and has advice for daughter who’s just beginning her studies

UW Caroline and Katie
Katie and mum Caroline

It’s a big week for one family, as a mum graduates and her daughter gets ready to begin her studies at the ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥.

Around 2000 graduates received their degree certificates this week, and amongst the people celebrating were Caroline Farrell and her daughter Katie, from Kenilworth in Warwickshire.

Caroline graduated from her PGCE (Special Educational Needs Coordination) just two days before Katie moves into her accommodation at the ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ for her degree in Professional Policing.

“It’s really nice to see mum graduate,” said Katie. “It’s great to see what it will be like for me in three years’ time.”

She added: “When I was looking at university, mum said ‘you need to have a look here, you’re going to think it’s amazing.”

She said: “When I came here on the open day I thought it was such a nice place. It’s very nurturing, they have a great variety of sport on offer here and the course leader for Policing just seemed absolutely amazing.”

So, what advice does mum have for Katie as she begins her studies?

“Enjoy it! Work hard, study hard, but play hard too.”

She continued: “I made friends who I still see regularly. We’re planning a big night out because we’ve all stayed in touch, even though we’re a mixture of people in their 20s, 30s, 40s and 50s, this time of life is about enjoying yourself and getting that opportunity to get your wings, fly, and grow up.”

Reflecting on what is an emotional week for the whole family, Caroline said: “This is rather huge, actually. Today’s my day, and then the rest of the week is about getting ready to see Katie off to University on Saturday, so it’s a big week for us.”

For information on courses at ÃÛÌÒÖ±²¥ visit or for application enquiries, telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk