A class of teachers has proved that you're never too old to stop learning — by gaining Master's degrees here on the Island.

Fourteen teachers from the public school system have achieved degrees in organisational management — accredited by Endicott College, Beverly, Massachusetts — with help from their union.

Bermuda Union of Teachers (BUT) organised professional development courses for the teachers in Bermuda and then discovered that the credits gained could translate into a two-year Master's course.

Union general secretary Mike Charles said: "They are taught by local instructors who have a Master's degree at least and who have all sent their qualifications to Endicott to be vetted.

"We have a diverse group of instructors."

He said the teachers were getting a postgraduate degree which would help them earn more, learn leadership skills and could be beneficial if they changed careers.

Twelve of the 14 students graduated at a ceremony at Elbow Beach Hotel on Saturday evening and two more groups of teachers are currently working toward the same qualification.

They will attend six-week courses which usually involve one four-hour class a week and lots of research. Each course accrues three credits and 36 credits are needed for the full degree.

"It's very intensive work and at the end of it they have to do a thesis," said Mr. Charles. "We are now looking at one in sports management and hospitality management.

"We'll put it out there and see what kind of interest there is."