Meet the youngest graduates in the land …..These gifted students from the Elms and the Oaks day nurseries will be toddling-up to receive their degrees from the University of Birmingham on 19 July.
As thousands of students graduate from Birmingham, 47 young bright hopefuls will swap blackboards for mortar boards and fancy dress for ceremonial robes when they celebrate their graduation from the university's nurseries.
The little graduands, who are all aged four, will receive degree certificates from Geoff Pringle, Director of Hospitality and Accommodation Services (HAS) at the university, to celebrate the end of their nursery education before they start school.
Michelle Bates, Manager of The Oaks Nursery said:
"This is a proud moment for children, parents and staff. Not only is it a chance to celebrate the youngsters' hard work and to recognise their achievements, but it's an opportunity for the adults to appreciate the fine young children who stand before us "
Tasmin Butt, Manager of the Elms Day Nursery, whose mother helps makes the mini gowns, adds:
"It's time to bid a fond farewell as they continue along their journey of education. I will be very sad to see them leave, but they will always hold a place in my heart. I wish them well for their future. "
Proud Parent Professor Jon Glasby, Director of the Health Services Management Centre at the University of Birmingham, whose four-year-old daughter Mary is among the graduands, said: "Watching Mary go to the University nursery has been a joy. She's turned into such a bright and lovely little girl, and she's really excited about going to school. As an employee at the University, having such a good nursery at my place of work has been a major attraction to me as a member of staff"
Mary, a student of the Elms, added: "I like going to nursery, because I like playing outside and because of Martin (the music man). I like the teachers, because they are nice and friendly."
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Media information: Anna Dingley, Press Officer, on 0121 4158134/07769 952763, email a.j.dingley@bham.ac.uk or Kate Chapple, on 0121 4142772/07789 921164
Notes to Editor:
Members of the media who wish to attend the photocall are advised to call the University of Birmingham Communications Office in advance. Professional images are also available.