Peter Reid (54) and Jody Reid (24) cap off their hard work by graduating together from the University of Otago.
Both line up at the Dunedin Town Hall at 3pm, Mr Reid to receive a graduate diploma in secondary education and Ms Reid a bachelor of education degree in early childhood and primary education.
Mr Reid, a Dunedin artist, never dreamed he would one day be heading back to school as an art teacher.
Born in Dunedin, he grew up in Cromwell and left the district high school to do what most others did in those days, get a job.
He became a clothes cutter for more than 20 years, first at Mosgiel Knitwear and for 16 years at Tamahine Knitwear until 2002.
Then the study began in earnest: two years in professional photography at the Southland Institute of Technology and then completion of a four-year Otago Polytechnic bachelor of fine art degree, majoring in painting.
During this year, the Reids would get together for coffee and to encourage each other - spurred on by the knowledge they might graduate on the same day.
Ms Reid is proud of her father's achievements and he is excited that teaching can help change lives and encourage young people to seize opportunities.
"I love the arts and can help students express themselves," he said.
And his advice for others considering tertiary study in later life?
"Just go for it. Just believe in yourself and don't let other people put you off.
"Sometimes, I can't quite believe what I've achieved and almost have to pinch myself and say `I have done it'."
