Two cousins who have been side-by-side in education for the past 18 years graduated together in the same ceremony.

Michelle Shaw and Kelly Shaw, both 21 and from Blackburn, who had spent the last 18 years of their lives in the same education establishments, celebrated the next step in their careers with their family at their graduation ceremony at King George's Hall last week.

The pair have been through every step of their education journeys together, from starting out in nursery at Meadowhead Community Infant School and Nursery before going to Meadowhead Junior School, then to Walton-le-Dale High School, before enrolling at Blackburn College.

Michelle, graduated with a commendation in BA (Hons) Disability Studies, while Kelly graduated with a commendation in BA (Hons) Criminology and Criminal Justice.

Michelle said: “It’s been lovely to be able to graduate with Kelly after going through education together, although we weren’t on the same course.

“I have autism and other disabilities and wanted to learn more about other conditions, and how other people view people with disabilities. I’m so pleased to have graduated, I'm delighted as it’s a big achievement. I’m now hoping to go into a job where I can help young people with disabilities.

“During the pandemic it was really difficult because I also lost my dad to cancer, but I have had a lot of support from my tutors, and I have made life-long friends.”

Kelly, who had a son whilst studying on the course said: “Michelle and I have been through nursery, school and high school together, so it’s been nice to also be at the same college and complete our degrees at the same.

“I’ve absolutely loved my course. I had my son whilst I was still finishing off the course which made it more difficult, but I’m really pleased that I managed to finish the course and graduate.”

Michelle and Kelly were two of more than 600 students who turned out to celebrate their successes at the three Blackburn University Centre graduation ceremonies.

Two ceremonies were held for students graduating in 2021, while a special graduation ceremony was held for students from 2020 as their graduation was postponed due to Covid-19.