Dionne Bennett with her young daughter Kaylana on her graduation day.

Getting a first at university is impressive by itself, but getting a first when you are looking after a toddler is even more so – and that is exactly what Tottenham’s Dionne Bennett has achieved.

The international business student discovered she was pregnant the same week she was accepted to Middlesex University, leaving her worried she would not be able to successfully complete her studies and be a good mother at the same time.

But Ms Bennett decided to start the course, giving birth to daughter Kaylana in the first year.

Thanks to the university’s nursery and family support, the 25-year-old was not only able to continue with her studies but also take advantage of everything Middlesex had to offer - becoming a learning assistant for current students, a course representative and taking part in the university’s unique public sector mentoring programme.

Ms Bennett said: “It has been very challenging, but is worth it. I’m so pleased to achieve a first which has been made possible through the support I’ve received from Middlesex. The graduation ceremony was so special especially as my little girl Kaylana was there to see me pick up my degree.”

Ms Bennett now hopes to complete a Masters and has secured a graduate teaching assistant position.