Developing the Skills For a Brighter Future with Access to HE Learner Sara Ceesay

When I was 8 or 9 years old in Africa, I dreaded going to school. My teacher would often punish me because I couldn't answer questions or do what my classmates could. I was always bottom of the class and it made me feel worthless, frustrated and like I would never be capable of learning, Those experiences left me doubting myself for many years, but they also sparked a determination in me to prove that I can success, overcome challenges and create a future I once though was impossible. These barriers left me with no qualifications.

I chose to study the Access to HE Diploma to change my future and prove to myself that I can succeed academically. In the past, I lacked confidence and support. This course has given me a second chance to rebuild my skills, grow in confidence and prepare for university so that I can be proud and passionate about a professional career as an Operating Department Practitioner.

The Access to HE Diploma has completely changed my life in just a few months. It has given me the confidence in my abilities and has shown me that I can achieve things I never thought possible. I now understand subjects I once struggled with and I feel very proud of my progress. It has motivated me to aim higher, believe in my own abilities and made me realise that with hard work and determination, I can create a better life for myself and my children.

Learning at the Institute of Technology inspires me every time I visit. The facilities are wonderful and new and it is very relaxing. As an adult learner, I am benefiting from the small class sizes as I can ask questions at my own pace especially as I struggle with the language barrier. I can stay motivated and the group work motivates me to learn from others and to challenge myself. I feel more engaged here and I am making the learning more meaningful to my future career.

My tutors at the Institute of Technology are very supportive especially around my biology units. In the past, I have never managed to pass biology exams and I often felt that I would never understand the subject. When I started the Access course, I could barely construct a proper sentence and biology still felt impossible. But that is getting better as my tutor is an incredible teacher who is patient and kind and always takes the time to explain things in a way I can understand. Because of their support and guidance, I gradually began to grasp the subject and most importantly I started to believe in myself. Their encouragement has given me hope and confidence to succeed academically.

The biggest challenge I would say I've faced has been overcoming my lack of confidence and past difficulties in education. At first, I struggled to understand the content or express myself in writing. Balancing my studies with personal responsibilities has also been difficult. However with the patience of my tutors, I have gradually overcome these challenges. Facing these obstacles has taught me resilience, improved my general study skills and has made my achievements feel even more meaningful and rewarding.

On completion of my diploma, I have already gained a conditional offer from the University of Staffordshire to study Operating Department Practice (ODP). I am really looking forward to this course as it will help me to build on the skills I have learnt this year. I want to make a real difference to the lives of others and develop a rewarding career in the NHS.

My advice to anyone thinking about returning to education would be to investigate if you can apply for an Advanced Learner Loan to help you to cover the costs of your course and don't let fear or past experiences hold you back. This journey has shown me that with the right support, patience and determination, it is possible to succeed and grow if you believe in yourself.