LIFE begins at 40, so the saying goes -- and that is exactly what has happened to Oakhill College's nursery manager Debbie Watson.

She decided to embark on a three-year Advanced Diploma in Childcare and Education at Blackburn College of Childhood Studies, and is now one of the very few in the country with this qualification.

The course included subjects such as child psychology and learning theories, child protection, observation and assessment.

And the enjoyment of learning also prompted Debbie to go on and take the Institute of Supervisory Management Course at Accrington College to ensure her management skills were at the same level as her technical nursery skills.

Philip Mahon, principal at Oakhill College, said: "We are proud of the advancements made in our nursery provision and Debbie's superb achievement is a further example of the commitment of all the nursery staff at the college".

And what next? "Well", says Debbie, "After a short break I would like to return to college to further my management qualifications but at present flower arranging will be taxing enough!"