“Before starting on my GCSE maths course I had been laid off from my job due to lockdown.

As a result of having a D in GCSE maths from school, I found that I could only apply for low paid, part-time jobs that weren’t suitable as I’m a single parent to two children.

I’ll be totally honest, I was nervous about coming back into education, but I knew I needed to be brave and take that first step.

I contacted Cambria and explained that due to difficulties and a general dislike of school I didn’t think I could improve on my D grade in GCSE maths.

I also explained that my goal was to move on to University and eventually become a fully qualified Mental Health Nurse.

Staff at the College were great and so helpful. They explained that to get on to the type of University course I was interested in, I would more than likely need to have a C grade in GCSE Maths and along with successful completion of the Access to Higher Education – Healthcare courses.

I really didn’t think I could do it, but they helped me to believe in myself and encouraged me to join the courses.

One year later, I walked away with a B Grade in GCSE maths along with the Access to Higher Education – Healthcare qualification! I couldn’t believe it! I was over the moon and can’t thank the teaching team enough.

It wasn’t easy and I really did apply myself and attended all the classes – but I did it!

I couldn’t have done it without the support of tutors, they were so patient with me and made me feel I could always ask as many questions as I needed to until I understood.

Today, I am at the University of Chester studying for a degree in Mental Health Nursing.
Taking that first step with Coleg Cambria has changed my life and I would recommend anyone who is worried about coming back to education to take a deep breath, be brave and just do it…what have you got to lose!”