A MOTHER and daughter who have identical careers have achieved identical degree qualifications.

Elizabeth and Michaela Shand, from Blackburn, have both gained BA Top-Up Inclusive Education Degrees at Blackburn's St Mary's College, part of Liverpool Hope University's Network of Hope.

Four years ago Elizabeth, who works as support staff at Witton Park High School in Buncer Lane, and her eldest daughter, a support assistant at Hawthorns Junior School, St James Road, saw an advert encouraging people to further their professional development.

Elizabeth, 61, a mother of four, grandmother of eight and great-grandmother of two, said: "I thought my age would be against me as I was nearing retirement - how could I begin a degree at my age? But with the encouragement of my family and school, I decided to give it a try.

"Now I feel that you are never too old to learn and we all have something to offer. I have, through this course, found more valuable ways in which to help the children I support in school."

The top-up degree covers a broad range of issues both in education and society in general, designed for anyone with career interests in education or other work with young people.

Elizabeth, from Sandon Street, added: "It's been a fantastic experience being able to discuss with my daughter any issues we have found difficult during our studies together."

Both women say the course has meant they can offer more to the children they work with.

Mum-of-four Michaela, 40, balanced her studying with supporting daughter Clare, 19, through a nursing degree, and her youngest children Natasha, 15, and Aaron, 10. She also has an older son, 22-year-old Daniel.

She said: "I found having my mum studying alongside me has been a real asset. She has been there to understand my worries and concerns and has supported and encouraged me at times when all I have felt like doing is giving up."

Michaela added that through her own studying this has also had a positive knock on effect on the youngsters she teaches.

"The children have been both interested and intrigued by the fact that I still go to college."

She added: "We hope our story shows that anybody can achieve whatever they want, whatever their age and background."