SIX years of hard work and dedication paid off for an IT director at the University of Chester who was awarded his Masters degree.

Henry Blackman, Deputy Director of Learning and Information Services at the university, donned his cap and gown with pride at his graduation ceremony at Chester Cathedral last month where he stepped up to receive his MSc in Information Systems.

The 34-year-old, who is also Head of Learning Technology, is no stranger to studying while juggling a demanding job having gained his BSc in Computer Science via the university’s Work Based Integrative Studies programme before embarking on his Masters on a part time basis.

Henry, from Chester, said: “It was quite hard work because I was virtually living and breathing the subject but it’s so rewarding now that I have finished.”

Henry is normally available behind the scenes on graduation day to deal with any technical issues relating to the filming of the ceremony, and with this year’s ceremony streamed live on to the university’s website he was able to relax while sitting among his peers.