A JEWELLERY worker has scooped a workplace promotion after gaining a degree in Blackburn.

Jewellery worker Catherine Harrington juggled a full-time job and the birth of her daughter while gaining a degree from University Centre at Blackburn College.

The 33-year-old graduated with a BA (Hons) Education Studies degree.

Catherine went straight into work at Peter Jackson’s the Jeweller when she left St Bede’s School but always had a wish to study further.

She has now been promoted from sales assistant to their head office in Preston.

She said: “I left school and was really shy and went straight to work.

“However, it niggled me that I had never continued my education as a lot of my friends had a degree and I always felt I was capable.”

Catherine was delighted to find out she could study while still working.

She added: “UCBC try to tailor the course to accommodate families and people in work and give them opportunities to better themselves.”

Education course leader Peter Shukie said: “Catherine has been a real diamond in the programme. She joined the course apprehensive about what returning to study as a mature student would be like.

“Now three years on, having worked full-time and started a family along the way, she’s been able to secure a promotion and an Upper Second Class Honours.

“She is a living example of what hard work and commitment can get you.”