64-year-old father of 5 graduates as a nurse after studying alongside his son

John Adesoye, a 64‑year‑old father of five, has graduated as a registered nurse after completing a two‑year degree apprenticeship at the University of the West of England, according to a press release from the university.

64-year-old Father Makes History

Adesoye earned his BSc (Hons) Nurse Degree Apprenticeship at Bristol Beacon on July 15, marking a milestone he once believed was out of reach.

He said he hopes his achievement inspires older adults to pursue higher education. “Don’t listen to people who say you’re too old for university,” he said. “If I can do it, others can too.”

A Career Reinvented

Adesoye grew up in a farming family in Nigeria and developed an early interest in electronics. He later worked as an electronics technician in Greece before moving to the United Kingdom.

He entered healthcare in 2013, driven by a desire to care for people. By 2014, he was working at Southmead Hospital as a healthcare assistant.

Adesoye advanced through two apprenticeship programs with North Bristol NHS Trust. First, he completed a two‑year Nursing Associate course. Then he earned a 2:1 in his Nurse Degree Apprenticeship, becoming a registered nurse this summer.

Throughout his training, Adesoye worked in cardiology, renal care, orthopaedics, emergency medicine, intensive care and community nursing. He balanced one day a week of study at UWE’s Glenside campus with full‑time work at Southmead Hospital.

He said the shift from electronics to nursing felt natural. “When patients get better, it gives me great joy and satisfaction.”

Studying Beside His Son

Adesoye studied at UWE at the same time his son Daniel pursued a degree in creative music technology. He said learning beside younger students energized him. “Being an older student kept me going — it made me feel younger.”

Course co‑leads Jacqui Caskey and Caroline Bromwich said Adesoye’s dedication shows what perseverance can achieve. “He and his cohort are an inspiration,” they said.

Professor Steve Hams of Bristol NHS Foundation Trust called Adesoye’s graduation “a powerful reminder that it is never too late to pursue your ambitions.”

Adesoye has secured a nursing role at Southmead Hospital and hopes to pursue a master’s‑level qualification. “Once the door opened, I took the opportunity,” he said. “I want to build on the experience I’ve already got.”