‘We are so lucky to have this time together and want to make it the best we can.’

A Sunderland mother and daughter are taking on the same MA at the University of Sunderland having already attained their degrees – thirty-five years apart.

Barbara Johnston, 57 and her daughter and Daisy, 22, are from Ashbrooke. They have just begun their MA Visual Practice studies and recently showcased their work as part of the university’s annual MA degree shows.

Both Barbara and Daisy have graduated from the university with fine art degrees, with Daisy graduating in July this year, equalling Barbara who made the same achievement back in 1991.

Barbara said: “I graduated from Sunderland Polytechnic in 1991 and then went on to complete my Post Graduate Certificate in Education and became a teacher for 31 years.

“I had always promised myself that I would take early retirement as soon as I was able so that I could fulfil my dream of completing my master’s degree.

“Although I've always loved teaching and don’t regret the course my life has taken, I have always had a love of painting too. I’ve kept painting whenever I could, even though working full time made it difficult.”

The opportunity for Barbara to fulfil her long-held ambition came this year, when Daisy graduated with a first and decided to study for her master’s in visual practice.

Daisy said: “Me and mam have wanted to do our MA together for so long and we are so glad we get the chance.

“We are so lucky to have this time together and want to make it the best we can.”

Daisy's 2026 graduation ceremony was at the Stadium of Light. Barbara's, in 1991, was before the stadium was built. | 3rd party

placeholder image — Daisy's 2026 graduation ceremony was at the Stadium of Light. Barbara's, in 1991, was before the stadium was built. | 3rd party

Visual practice can include contemporary fine art, photography, glass or ceramics.

Barbara added: “It is such a privilege to go through this course with Daisy. We support each other and have become even closer, and the year group are so friendly and welcoming.

“I can't believe how lucky I am sometimes; it really is like a dream come true for me and I'm amazed every day at how happy and fortunate I am and how much my work has developed. I can't wait to see where my painting goes next.”

For more information on studying MA visual practice at the University of Sunderland, go to www.sunderland.ac.uk.

Get more news by signing up here to the Sunderland Echo’s newsletter