THREE students from Wyre Forest will graduate from the University of Worcester next week with First Class Honours.

Sean Clarke, Sophie Hemmings and Jordan Ingamells are among around 3,000 graduands who will graduate in the historic Worcester Cathedral.

Sean, from Stourport-on-Severn, earned his First Class Honours in Physical Education and Sports Coaching Science.

The 21-year-old former Stourport High School and Sixth Form Centre pupil said: “Words cannot describe how proud I am to have achieved a First Class Honours.”

“It is something I never thought I would be able to achieve. The experiences and memories I had already made at university made it the best time of my life so far, and for it to finish with a First Class degree is the perfect ending to my undergraduate time.”

Sean is now studying for a Masters degree in Sports Coaching and hopes one day to work within a professional football academy helping to develop the nation’s next generation of players.

Sophie Hemmings will graduate with a degree in Adult Nursing.

“Achieving a First Class Honours in my degree gave me an immense sense of achievement and self-pride as this was a reflection of the hard work and determination that I carried throughout my studies and clinical practice,” the 21-year-old from Kidderminster said.

“I have now pursued my passion for oncology and haematology, having started my registered nurse role within this field of nursing. This is a speciality that I aspire to professionally develop within to continuously deliver the best evidence-based practice and quality care to support individuals through a challenging and sensitive journey.”

Jordan Ingamells will graduate with a First in Business Psychology.

The 23-year-old from Bewdley said: “I put many, many hours into my assignments, alongside a part-time job, to gain my First Class degree. It is an achievement that will stay with me for life and I am very proud that I achieved this classification; I had always hoped that I would gain a First Class degree and it is an incredible feeling to know that my hard worked paid off.”

Jordan is now working as an Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Support Officer for Dudley Council.

The university’s deputy vice chancellor and provost, Professor Sarah Greer, said: “The class of 2021 showed remarkable resilience and determination in the face of some unprecedented challenges during their studies, due to very difficult external circumstances.

"They have all done so well in earning a degree from Worcester, through their hard work, perseverance and dedication. This should stand them in good stead as they move into their chosen careers. Our students who earned a First Class Honours should feel particularly proud of themselves – it is an outstanding achievement.

"Many congratulations to them and I wish them all the very best in their future careers. I would also like to thank our outstanding staff at the University, who went above and beyond to ensure that our students reached their full potential.”

For information on courses at University of Worcester visit www.worcester.ac.uk or for application enquiries telephone 01905 855111 or email admissions@worc.ac.uk