Wolverhampton University graduation: Students don caps and robes at ceremony - with PICTURES and VIDEO

The first graduation ceremony of the new academic year took place, with future graduates weaving their way from the main University of Wolverhampton campus to The Grand Theatre ahead of stepping on stage to receive their certificates.

Proud family members, friends and university staff members congregated outside The Grand as early as 8.30am, with many tasked with helping nervous students put on their robes.

One proud mother was particularly happy to see her daughter graduate. Lisa Faulkner, aged 46 of Great Wyrley is mother of Stevie Faulkner, aged 22.

Both mother and daughter studied at the same time, with Lisa completing her degree in nursing whilst Stevie studied childhood, family and education studies.

Lisa, who works at Walsall Manor, is due to graduate next week. She said: “I am immensely proud of Stevie. It was really lovely studying together because we get on so well anyway, we’d see each other on campus and wave and have nice lunches together. We were also each other’s proof-readers when we were submitting work, so that was really helpful.”

Stevie said: “I wasn’t embarrassed or anything like that. I’d look forward to bumping into mum and having a chat about how the day was going. Not only this, but you’d be guaranteed a lift home.”

Stevie will now continue her studies to complete her postgraduate certificate in education (PGCE) whilst Lisa will complete her Masters degree in nursing.

Yesterday’s graduation is just one of several due to take place in the coming weeks for both current students and those due to receive honorary degrees from the university. Next week, Rebecca Bryant who is Chief Fire Officer for Staffordshire Fire Service will become an honorary doctor of professional practice, and comedian Al Murray – better known for his alter ego The Pub Landlord – will become an honorary doctor of social science in recognition of his contribution towards military history.