Orkney graduate the most northerly in Scotland at Open University ceremonies

With The Open University (OU), students can embark on life-changing studies right across Scotland; learning from their part of the world, fitted in around their busy lives.

Recently, the focal point was Glasgow Royal Concert Hall, where 660 graduates came together in celebration of their OU qualifications at degree ceremonies.

Saffron Macivor from Orkney was the most northerly Open University in Scotland graduate to cross the stage, marking the pinnacle of a long-held personal goal.

Determination to study for degree

Travelling from her South Ronaldsay home, Saffron was cheered on by loved ones - including husband Kevin and dad John - as her First-Class achievement was recognised.

The OU is perfect for people like me who have many other life commitments. If I can do it anyone can!"

Saffron Macivor, 
OU (Honours) Open degree graduate

The mum-of-three says: “I had my children James, Fergus and Abbie when I was young – from the age of 22 - and didn’t further my education at that time, which had been my life plan. 

“Therefore I was determined to study for a degree and prove to myself I could do it. Also, my dad had studied at Cambridge University and he inspired me.

“I am very proud of myself having gained my degree with a First and that I never gave up, having started in 2013. 

“I’m pleased that there was a degree ceremony to attend so that I could celebrate my success with my family and friends.”

Saffron adds: “The OU is perfect for people like me who have many other life commitments and need to fit study around those commitments. If I can do it anyone can!”

Flexible studies

By selecting to do a Bachelor of Science (Honours) Open degree, Saffron was able to pick her own courses, including favourite ones in Psychology and Criminology.

She chose an OU degree due to “the flexibility of studying from home whilst working and ability to balance study and family life. Also the fact that I could take study breaks when life situations arose that required my full attention.”

These included a year’s pause to self-build a seaside house on the island of South Ronaldsay. Saffron and her family moved there from Kirkwall, Orkney’s biggest town located around 20 miles to the north. 

South Ronaldsay is linked to Orkney’s main island by four Churchill Barrier causeways.

Saffron also took some years out to study for a separate work qualification.

The 53-year-old is an assessors’ technician at the Orkney and Shetland Valuation Joint Board in Kirkwall, carrying out house surveys to value them for council tax band purposes. Previously she worked in the social housing sector for 17 years.

Peer and University support

During her studies, Saffron found a WhatsApp group for students on her module very helpful, and also used a module-related North of Scotland online forum. 

Saffron adds: “A friend who lives here in Orkney is also studying at the OU so we supported each other over the years.”

In her final module Saffron - whose first grandchild arrived in May - received University support while experiencing an eye problem. 

She was granted an extension for her final assignment due to a torn retina, and was encouraged to submit a special circumstances form.

Celebration of achievement

Congratulations to Saffron on her outstanding achievement. Her determination and perseverance reflect the very best of the Open University spirit."

Martin Boyle, 
OU in Scotland Director

Martin Boyle, Director of The Open University in Scotland, said: “Congratulations to Saffron on her outstanding First-Class Honours achievement. 

“Her determination and perseverance reflect the very best of the Open University spirit. 

“From Orkney to Gretna, as Scotland’s national university for widening access and lifelong learning our mission is to make higher education accessible to everyone in Scotland — and Saffron’s success is a wonderful example of what that can mean in practice.”

The University also awarded honorary degrees on 24 October to Scottish music icons Ricky Ross and Lorraine McIntosh, for their outstanding contribution to arts, culture and society, as well as foreign affairs academic Dr Fiona Hill, in recognition for her exceptional contribution to foreign policy, democratic scrutiny and the importance of equality of opportunity.

Degree ceremony day photo by Kathryn Tuckerman