Mother and Daughter Graduate Together in Bradford

Family share unique experience completing archaeology degrees

A mother and daughter from Bradford have both graduated from the University of Bradford, marking a rare occasion of family members completing their degrees together. Elaine Shaw and her daughter Anysia Padgett have each earned qualifications in archaeology-related subjects after studying side-by-side for much of their courses.

Studying together at university

Elaine Shaw, aged 63, graduated with a BA (Hons) Heritage and Archaeology degree, while her daughter Anysia Padgett, 24, achieved a first-class honours BSc Archaeology. The pair attended lectures, seminars, and undertook study sessions together throughout their time at university.

Anysia initially completed a Foundation Year at Bradford before starting a BSc in Forensic Archaeology and Anthropology. After taking a year out in 2023, she re-enrolled on her current archaeology course following participation in an archaeological dig with her mother.

Speaking about the experience, Anysia said it was unusual to graduate alongside her mother and that studying together provided mutual support, especially during challenging times. She noted that having Elaine by her side gave her confidence when returning to university and helped her overcome doubts about continuing her studies.

Elaine’s journey back to education

Elaine began her degree in 2022 after a career as a primary school teaching assistant and legal secretary. Following changes in her personal circumstances, including her partner’s redundancy during the pandemic, she decided to pursue higher education later in life.

Elaine achieved a 2:1 in her degree and now works full-time as a Cemetery Registrar at Undercliffe Cemetery. She described graduating alongside her daughter as a significant personal and family milestone, emphasising the importance of their mutual encouragement throughout the course.

Family links to the University of Bradford

• Elaine’s son, Saul, previously completed both undergraduate and master’s degrees in Film and TV Production and Filmmaking at Bradford.
• Another daughter, Koren, studied at a different university.

Future plans

Anysia hopes to develop a career in the museum sector. During her studies, she completed a dissertation project with Bradford Museums, worked with herbarium collections, and continues to volunteer at Cliffe Castle Museum in Keighley. She is actively seeking opportunities to gain further experience in museum work.

Both Elaine and Anysia view their joint graduation as a memorable achievement and a testament to their close relationship, strengthened by their shared academic journey.