Family’s gowning glory
Graduation days are always special and they were extra special for one family who marked it with three generations taking part. Professor Jeff Thompson processed at both his daughter and granddaughter’s degree ceremonies at the University of Bath last week. Professor Thompson took part in the ceremonies of daughter Lynda, graduating with an MA in education and international education, and her niece Emily, graduating with a BSC in mathematical sciences. Lynda, who used to teach maths at Culverhay School, now Bath Community Academy, works at an international school in Switzerland and is moving this summer to an international school in Mexico. She said: “Graduating alongside my niece this summer, several years after my dad’s graduation with an honorary degree, all with the University of Bath, is a beautiful illustration to me of what education is intrinsically about. “Throughout our lives we are in a continuous process of learning, whatever our ages and stage of life we find ourselves.” Emily said: “Leaving school after my A Levels, I was keen to con- tinue my studies and I chose the University of Bath as the place I felt would provide opportunities to study maths in great depth. “Graduating in the same week as my auntie, and with my grandad attending the ceremony, will make this an even more special occasion.” Jeff Thompson, Emeritus Professor of Education, has been involved in graduation ceremonies at the university over a number of decades having joined in 1979. He said: “It is always a delight to be present at the graduating ceremonies for students with whom we, as members of staff, have shared teaching and learning experiences over the course of a programme lasting, in some cases, many years. “It is a particular pleasure to be doing so with members of one’s own family and in my own university. “As a father and grandfather I can join with all our family in celebrating the success which they have each earned and which they both thoroughly deserve, and of