Celebrating the Class of 2025: Inspiring Journeys at Birmingham Newman University
This year’s Graduation Ceremony, held on Monday, marked a proud moment for Birmingham Newman University as we celebrated the achievements of our exceptional Class of 2025. Each graduate has a unique story of perseverance, growth, and success — and we’re honoured to share a few of them.
Anna Rothera – Pioneering Path in Policing
Graduating from the Professional Policing Degree, Anna Rothera has made history as the first Birmingham Newman University PPD student to become a full-time police officer. She recently joined West Midlands Police as a Constable.
Jo Beard – Triumph Through Adversity
Jo Beard, graduating with a First Class Honours in BA Early Childhood Studies, shared how her time at Newman helped her overcome personal challenges, including the sudden loss of her father.
“Birmingham Newman University was where my passion for early years really came to life. I was surrounded by passionate peers and inspirational lecturers who helped me overcome lots of self-doubt… I will always have a Birmingham Newman shaped spot in my heart.”
Jo now works within the NHS, applying both her academic knowledge and practical skills gained during her studies.
Joshua Robinson – Sporting Success and Business Leadership
Joshua Robinson, a graduate of BSc Sports Coaching, reflected on his rewarding experiences at Newman, including helping run a Mini Olympics for local schoolchildren.
“My time at Newman University has been an incredible journey full of opportunities to learn, grow, and get involved in the community.”
Joshua has secured a coveted spot as one of 71 on the Graduate Business Management Programme with Wates Group, selected from over 8,000 applicants.
His advice: “Take every opportunity that comes your way – you never know how far it might take you.”
Joshua’s journey from Birmingham Newman to Graduate Business Management Programme
Amarpreet Kaur Mandier – Resilience and Aspiration
Graduating with a First Class Honours in Working with Children, Young People and Families, Amarpreet’s story is one of determination and growth. Despite academic challenges and a late diagnosis of a learning disability, she excelled with the support of her lecturers.
She told us “challenges are a learning journey – within them lies growth that guides us, revealing the light at the end of the tunnel.”
Amarpreet is now pursuing a PGCE in Primary Education, aiming to inspire future generations with the same compassion she experienced at Birmingham Newman.
Chantelle Wright – Overcoming Barriers to Achieve Excellence
Chantelle Wright, graduating with a First Class Honours in Early Childhood Education, shared how Newman’s supportive environment helped her thrive despite living with a personality disorder.
“Graduating now feels like proof that it’s never too late to pursue something you care about, regardless of the obstacles you carry with you.”
She hopes to continue her studies with a master’s degree in criminal studies, aiming to work with young offenders.
Carris Strong – Balancing Work and Study with Determination
Carris Strong, also graduating with a First Class Honours in Early Childhood Education, juggled her studies with full-time work as a nursery manager and later as cabin crew.
“Jane, Mark and Kate [part of the academic staff at Birmingham Newman] never let me believe anything was out of reach… I’m proud to be graduating with a first and feel excited for what’s ahead.”
Carris looks forward to exploring new opportunities in early years education.
A Future Full of Promise
These stories reflect the heart of Birmingham Newman University — a place where students are supported, challenged, and inspired to reach their full potential. We are incredibly proud of our graduates and can’t wait to see the impact they’ll make in their communities and beyond.
