Two mature students have thanked the local college which supported them as they celebrate their graduation.

Barnet and Southgate College held its very first higher education graduation ceremony at St John the Baptist Church in Chipping Barnet.

Emmanuel Adjei-Ofosu and Iwona Saunders were both celebrating graduating later in life and finding new ways to support their families and continue their careers.

Mr Adjei-Ofosu, as husband and father of six living in Edgware, graduated with a BSc in Computer Science, and now enjoys working as a lecturer at Barnet and Southgate College.

The 56-year-old said: “At the beginning I found the course quite challenging, but I was determined and the openness and readiness of the tutors at any time of day really gave me the encouragement to carry on.

“I would definitely recommend it to anyone who thinks it may be too late to go back to education or training.

“I’m so proud I finally achieved a distinction in my degree and I’m now in full time employment – I love my job and inspiring the next generation.”

Ms Saunders, a mother of two living in High Barnet, started learning English with Barnet and Southgate College after moving to England from Poland.

She has now graduated with a BSc in Business Management and has moved on to her AAT accounting qualifications and a part-time job at a construction company in Bushey.

The 42-year-old said: “I’m feeling very proud today as it is such a personal achievement.

“When I arrived in the UK from Poland, I could never have believed that I could get a degree here.

“I’d absolutely recommend coming to College, not only for your career but do it for yourself, to build your confidence and to enjoy the social aspect.”

Principal of the college David Byrne praised all the graduates at the ceremony and reiterated the college’s goal to “diversity of excellence” due to the varied backgrounds of its students.