Nearly 140 Pembrokeshire College students received their degree or higher national diploma from the University of Glamorgan during a prestigious ceremony at St. David's Cathedral on Saturday.
Among the graduands was Paul Silvester who was awarded what is believed to be the first foundation degree in Wales, and a father and son who both graduated in electronic engineering. A special external fellowship was also awarded by the University of Glamorgan to racing yacht designer Merfyn Owen for his valuable contribution to the design and build of a Mini Transat single-handed racing yacht that the BSc Sail and Powerboat Studies students have built and one of them will sail across the Atlantic in September.
Paul completed his HND in Sports Science (Outdoor Activities) at Pembrokeshire College last year where he achieved merits and distinction grades. He has now embarked on his change-of-career dream working at an outdoor centre in Hertfordshire where he instructs kayaking, canoeing, climbing and orienteering as well as managing some programmes. Paul completed the foundation degree module whilst in employment.
Deputy vice chancellor Professor Les Hobson said he was delighted that the first foundation degree to be awarded in Wales should be at Pembrokeshire College.
"We have strong links with Pembrokeshire and the fact that Paul is now working in the career of his choice is testament to the value employers place upon foundation degrees.
"I am also delighted that the University of Glamorgan is in a position to award an external fellowship to Merfyn Owen.
"Merfyn has made a valuable contribution to Pembrokeshire College and we are pleased to recognise his achievements in this way."
Graduate Alex Lloyd is following in his father's footsteps by completing an HND in Electronic Engineering 30 years later. His father is still setting the pace and was awarded a degree with distinction in the same subject at the award ceremony.