Soaring academic success for Vale colleagues

07 August 2025

A handful of Vale colleagues recently donned their caps and gowns for a number of graduation ceremonies over the past few weeks.

Donna Parker, Rebecca Pereira, and Nikita Harrhy are among graduates from the Youth Service who recently collected their university degrees.

Rebecca, Donna and Nikita all completed their BA Honours in Youth and Community Work at Cardiff Metropolitan University, while Donna and Rebecca were also recognised by the university with a Recognition of Academic Excellence Award (Rebecca) and an Excellence in Professional Practice Award (Donna).

Upon receiving her award with her degree, Donna said: “This award is given in recognition of a student’s contribution to the programme and their outstanding achievements. With over 1,500 students in their final year across the School of Education and Social Policy, being selected for this award was an incredibly proud and humbling moment for me.

“Not bad for someone who left school with just a handful of GCSEs! It just goes to show what’s possible with the right support, determination, and a passion for the work we do.”

Also celebrating their academic success were Housing Development Officers Sam Rosser and Callum Matthews, who officially graduated from the University of South Wales at a ceremony at the ICC in Newport. Sam and Callum successfully completed Higher National Certificates in Built Environment, and received a Distinction grade each.

Sam and Callum plan to continue their studies later this year by pursuing degree-level qualifications in construction.

And from the Communications Team, Jasmine Emery also recently graduated with an MSc in Global Ecology and Conservation from Cardiff University, achieving a Distinction for her postgraduate studies.

These graduations are just one example of how colleagues across our organisation continue to grow and achieve great things in many different ways - congratulations to all for your hard work and dedication! Llongyfarchiadau!