Study has fulfilled long-time ambition

Tim Urquhart with his children, Ethan, 13, and Lara, 11, who helped him study through his three-year sport and recreation degree. Photo / Ruth Keber

Tim Urquhart is graduating this week with an A minus average, after going back to "school" at 43.

The Bachelor of Sport and Recreation graduate will join almost 2300 others graduates from the Bay of Plenty Polytechnic who are swapping their text books for a graduation gown and cap to receive their degrees and diplomas this week.

Mr Urquhart, a solo father-of-two from the Avenues, now 45 years old, said it was a big decision to go back to school but he had been in the building and horticulture industry and wanted a change.

"I wanted to get involved with work that I was actually passionate about and enjoy - sports."

Mr Urquhart said the three years of study were challenging but worth the time and effort.

"It was hard just going back to school as a starter, at the age of 43. The average age of the class was 22. But also hard getting back into that school environment and learning how to study again. Doing assignments all on the computer - when I was last at school there was no such thing.

"But the kids have enjoyed watching me. They had their homework and I had mine too. I've had to lead by example with it. Instead of me saying to them 'go do your homework' I've had to say 'let's all do our homework together'."

Mr Urquhart said it's been a huge relief to have finished the course. "It will be nice not to have all that pressure anymore but it was good to get those quality results."

The degree had opened his eyes to different avenues where he could now take his career and he'd be applying for jobs in the new year, he said.

Marketing and communications manager Meg Jones said the Polytechnic was incredibly proud of the graduating students.

"They have put their heart and souls into their studies and their many hours of hard work have paid off. We are looking forward to seeing what future successes these talented graduates have in the coming years."

Many international and local students will be graduating over the next few days and heading off into the work force.