Calum's graduation day

The entrance to the awards

On 16 July 2013 Calum graduated from Ravensbourne, a specialist college for the creative arts, with a BA Hons degree in Graphic Design. Joe, Calum, Lola and I went to London for the ceremony which was held at the O2 on the Greenwich Peninsula, opposite the college. Being in such a glamorous venue gave the event an added sense of occasion. We arrived in plenty of time to get a good seat and secure a good view of the stage.

 The stage is set

There was a real buzz in as all the friends and families of the graduands (students who are about to graduate) took their places to wait for the ceremony to begin. Calum had to collect his gown and mortar board and met us in the auditorium before going downstairs to go on stage. He looked very smart.

 Me and Calum in the auditorium at the O2 arena

 Calum and Lola in the auditorium at the O2 arena

Hearing about all the achievements of the students was very moving and, of course, I felt a lump in my throat when Calum went on stage. He'd worked so hard to get his degree and it was wonderful to see him receive the recognition he deserved. After the ceremony was over, we all filed out into the main area of the O2. Everyone was taking photos, including us!

 Joe and Calum at the O2

 Me, Calum and Lola at the O2

After the ceremony we went to Ravensbourne for the reception. I'd never been inside the building - I'd only seen it from the outside - so I was very interested to see the state-of-the-art interior. It didn't disappoint.

It was great to meet Calum's tutors too. They were a lovely bunch of people who, as well as being very creative, also had a good sense of humour. They obviously thought highly of Calum and were pleased with what he had achieved.

Calum and his tutors

The reception was very enjoyable and the champagne flowed. Lola and I enjoyed a few glasses.

Me and Lola enjoying a glass of bubbly

After the reception, we went for a meal at Balthazar's in Covent Garden, the London version of the fabulous New York restaurant we'd visited for his 18th birthday. It was great and the food was fantastic, although the service was a little erratic at times. When I complained, they gave us free desserts which was a bonus.

Calum and Lola at Balthazar's

Calum enjoys his meal.

When Calum received his pudding, it came with 'Congratulations' written on the plate. It was a very nice touch and one that Calum appreciated. A lovely end to an amazing day. Congratulations Calum. So proud of you.

Calum's celebratory pudding