It must rank as a unique family success story.
A mother and daughter collected their BA degrees together this week, in business and management studies.
Liz Furmedge (left) and her daughter Vicki (right) donned their gowns and joined 22 other proud graduates for a special ceremony held at the SECC in Glasgow.
Since 2010 over 50 SSE employees have completed degrees or diplomas. They combined study with full time jobs in order to enhance their careers.
Vicki, who works on the Retail Compliance Review Project in Havant, was the first member of the Furmedge family to hit the books two years ago. This year she graduated with a distinction in her degree in business and management studies.
Inspired by her daughter’s example Liz also completed the same course and passed with flying colours.
“At first my mother Liz asked if I minded if she joined the course,” explained Vicki.
“We’re very close so I didn’t mind at all. We took all the same classes and sat together and we even did a bit of studying together.
“It’s a real challenge to juggle studying with a full time job, but doing it with mum has made it more fun.”
Liz Furmedge, an Industry Change Programme Manager, said having her daughter around helped with the assignments.
“There was a very busy time after Christmas when studying was difficult,” said Liz.
“We had a three week holiday booked and the arrival of our first grandchild to contend with. There were only three days left to complete a big assignment so having Vicki to talk to was very helpful. I’m very proud of her gaining a distinction.”
The degree has already paid dividends for Vicki who has enjoyed a promotion on the back of it. Likewise mum Liz is confident the qualification will broaden her opportunities.
Ryan Sadler, Head of Learning and Development, praised the hard work of all the SSE graduates.
He said: “I’m studying for an MBA myself at the moment so I know how hard it can be to combine studying with a full-time job. We started this scheme three years ago and so far over 50 SSE employees have completed diplomas or degrees.
“We want to maximise the opportunities for staff at SSE and our innovative programme helps broaden their horizons. Well done to all those who are celebrating their graduations – they have thoroughly earned their success.”
SSE has also recently launched its Business Academy, in partnership with Glasgow Caledonian University. Graduates enrol for a diploma in business and management studies.
The programme ensures employees put their learning into practice, with the chance to understand the dynamics of the SSE organisation and its core values.
On completion of the diploma, SSE aims to place successful employees throughout its business operations.