Awards of Achievement

This journey has shown me that even when life feels limited ... there are still limitless ways to grow - Zakaria Ajmal

When I was diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, my life changed in ways I could never have imagined. Suddenly, so much of what I had taken for granted was no longer possible. Physical activity became limited, and the pace of life slowed to a level I hadn't known before. In many ways, my world became smaller, but through my distance learning programme, a new window opened. Studying from home gave me something precious: a sense of purpose. It allowed me to focus on what I could do, rather than on all the things my heart condition took away. The structure of the course, the carefully designed learning materials, and the flexibility of working at my own pace meant I could continue to grow, learn, and achieve even on the days when my energy was low.

More than that, the programme built my confidence. Every completed assignment, every concept I understood, felt like a quiet victory over the limitations my condition imposed. The guidance and encouragement I received from my tutors played a huge role in this. Their feedback wasn't just academic, it was supportive, understanding, and motivating. In particular, one tutor's support made a remarkable difference. They didn't just guide me through the subject matter, their patience and belief in me gave me the focus to push through difficult days and aim for excellence.

With my condition restricting so much of my life, studying became both my main activity and my lifeline. Thanks to the programme's flexibility and the unwavering support from the tutors, I was able to channel my time and energy into learning and to achieve grades I am truly proud of. This journey has shown me that even when life feels limited, with the right guidance and determination, there are still limitless ways to grow.

As I began studying with DistanceLearningCentre.com, I started to have something I hadn't had in a long time: hope - Issy Brignell

My journey with DistanceLearningCentre.com was everything I expected it to be and more. I started my Access course in Psychology and Counselling in September 2024, with the aim to finish the course by the end of May 2025.

As someone who acutely struggles with their mental health and had to drop out of earlier education because of this, I was unsure whether getting back into studying would be a good idea. I knew I needed something to give me a sense of purpose, but I was lacking confidence and motivation at the time. However, as soon as I began studying with DistanceLearningCentre.com, I started to have something I hadn't had in a long time: hope.

One person who helped me feel that hope was my amazing tutor. She was so supportive and proactive, and got involved in my studies. This certainly helped me feel less alone and more comfortable to reach out for help and support. This was particularly helpful when I found myself in difficult circumstances.

In December, I was badly assaulted. I felt like I'd been knocked back to square one with my mental health. As a result of the assault, I had a bad mental health incident which landed me in hospital. I contemplated pausing the course but decided to persevere. And I'm so grateful I did persevere. The course continued to give me a sense of belonging and purpose. I truly believe this is what got me through this extremely difficult time.

With the help of my staff, including my tutor, at DistanceLearningCentre.com, I finished my course by the end of May 2025 with good grades and an offer to study Psychology BSc from my goal university too. But not only did DistanceLearningCentre.com educate me and help me obtain this offer, they also became a big part of my personal recovery journey. Looking back, I am proud of myself. Not only for the grades I have achieved, but also for the strength I have found in myself. For that, I will always be thankful for DistanceLearningCentre.com.

To anyone considering studying with DistanceLearningCentre.com, particularly those who are unsure or who struggle mentally, please go for it. You will not be disappointed! Not only will you be supported to grow academically, but also as a person. Remember, you really can do anything you put your mind to.

DistanceLearningCentre.com Helped Me to Achieve Something I Thought Impossible - Going to Oxford - Josh Facer

Despite it always being a dream of mine, I never thought I'd be able to go to university. I was raised in a high-control religious group that strongly discouraged higher education. I was instead encouraged to spend as much time as possible as a volunteer, furthering the religion's goals. I was home-schooled for most of my education and, therefore, had no qualifications whatsoever. Thinking some biblical apocalypse was soon to take place, I worked part-time as a window cleaner, earning just enough to support myself.

However, I finally woke up from the indoctrination, largely due to reading and studying lots of academic books, and left the group in my late twenties. Finally, I could make my own decisions. Still, despite wanting to pursue academia, I had no idea how to achieve my dream of going to university, having no GCSEs or A-Levels. Doing A-Levels as an independent, mature student was complicated and expensive, and I honestly had no idea where to begin. I worried about how long it would take before I could even apply for university.

That's when I discovered DistanceLearningCentre.com. And trusting them with my education was one of the best decisions I've ever made.

Because I wanted to study a humanities-related subject, I chose the Access to English (Humanities) Diploma. Right from the get-go, the tutors were helpful and welcoming, always available to provide help when I needed it. The course itself was very enjoyable, with each module full of information and good recommendations for further reading and resources. I found everything incredibly interesting. The progress I was making was obvious, and I was clearly learning and developing skills. I definitely grew in confidence as I progressed through the course, thanks to the well-explained learning material and great and thorough feedback from my tutors. The skills I learnt from this course were invaluable. And despite having a lot of stressful upheaval and challenging family drama going on in the background pretty much the entire time, I was able to complete the course in less than a year!

The other great thing about DistanceLearningCentre.com is the way they help you through the University application process. Looking back, I would have had no idea what I was doing when it came to applying. But from writing a personal statement to navigating UCAS, to when everything needed to be done by, everything was fully explained, and support was always provided. When I had to send in written work as part of my Oxford application, my tutors even helped me write the cover letter. I was probably quite annoying with the amount of questions I asked, but they were very patient with me.

The results from doing this course were beyond my wildest dreams. I was accepted into four Russell Group universities, including my main and dream choice, Oxford. With my background and lack of academic experience and qualifications, I'd have never thought it was possible. And yet, I'm now an Oxford student studying Theology and Religion.

Ultimately, I'm extremely grateful to DistanceLearningCentre.com. Thanks to them, my whole life has changed for the better, and I can't wait to see where I'll end up. I couldn't recommend them more highly.

Take the risk, follow that dream, no matter how big it may seem, I promise you that it's worth it - Annabel Jones

Before starting this course, I honestly had no idea what I would do with my life. Due to my chronic illness, I was unable to finish my A levels, bedbound with a dream I didn't think I could reach. That was when my partner introduced me to DistanceLearningCentre.com and the Access to HE diploma for Law & Legal Professions - a chance for me to continue my education in a way that accommodated my issues. It took me a little to make the leap, my confidence low after spending time out of education, but I'll always be thankful I did.

Starting the diploma, I found myself quickly getting along with my tutor and immersing myself in my subject, slowly building back up my confidence in both myself and what I can do. My tutor was incredibly supportive and answered all of my questions, even those I thought were a little silly, with incredible understanding of my circumstances in regards to both my chronic illness and my autism. Even when I was hit with setbacks, my tutor was always there ready to support me through so I could achieve the best grades possible. The course itself was full of information that was easily accessible, no matter where I was, and flexible in ways that allowed me to study while managing my ill health. I started enjoying learning again and looking forward to my future, working hard to eventually come out with 45 credits at Distinction and an offer to study Law at King's College London this September.

I wouldn't have been able to have done this without the amazing support from my tutor and the staff at DistanceLearningCentre.com, and I can't thank them enough for giving me my dream back. I highly recommend them to anybody considering completing an Access to HE diploma. Two years ago, I believed I'd never be able to go to university, that I'd never be able to achieve what I wanted to achieve. Now, I'm a much more confident person, willing to face the future with everything I have because of the opportunities and growth this course has given me. To those like me who think it's too late or out of their reach, it's not! Take the risk, follow that dream, no matter how big it may seem, I promise you that it's worth it. I'm cheering you on!

I feel proud to be a part of the DistanceLearningCentre.com community - Aneta Miszczynska

My journey with DistanceLearningCentre.com began around 2 years before I actually started the course. I have always been a confident person, but as I learnt, life can be unpredictable; things can fall apart easily, and then you are just left anxiously fighting for existence only. So in those 2 years, struggling with my mental health, losing a job and looking after my autistic son, I kept going back to the website trying to work up the courage to apply. Eighteen years out of education, and English as my second language did not help either. Nevertheless, I applied, and truthfully, it was not easy at all, and it took me much longer than I originally planned, but I managed to complete my Access to Higher Education Diploma with most distinctions.

This would not have happened without the guidance, support, encouragement and understanding from my amazing tutors. There were moments where I really struggled with time and motivation; however, each email from my tutor provided reassurance and great advice, so I would like to use this opportunity to say, 'Thank you for believing in me and supporting me,' which, despite all of my difficulties, allowed me to complete my course successfully.

Due to my personal circumstances, completing the course online was the only way I could progress with my education. DistanceLearningCentre.com did not disappoint. After familiarising myself with the Student Handbook, the website, YouTube videos and any additional links to a variety of resources, I felt well-equipped to carry on with my assignments. The learning materials were easy to follow, and I could study at any time, especially at night when I had the most time. The online library was also packed with resources relevant to each one of the units I studied. In addition, the Facebook group was very supportive and full of useful information, and I feel proud to be a part of the DistanceLearningCentre.com community.

As I already mentioned, it took me a little longer to complete my Access to HE Diploma, but this journey opened a new path that will continue now at Arden University, and it would not have happened without the support from DistanceLearningCentre.com, during which I also worked hard on my personal growth and gained back my confidence.

Thank you, DistanceLearningCentre.com!

I never imagined university was possible, but thanks to DistanceLearningCentre.com and my tutor's support, I am now heading to the University of Sunderland to study Physiotherapy - Francesco Pappa-McNeilly

My dream has always been to become a physiotherapist, but like many, I didn't get the grades at A-level and ended up doing something I wasn't passionate about. At the time, I didn't know there were other options, so I thought my chance had gone. It's unfortunate that the school system doesn't make you aware of courses like this or different modes of learning, because they can genuinely change lives. For a long time, I honestly believed university wasn't possible for me anymore.

Finding the Access to HE Diploma in Allied Health Professions with DistanceLearningCentre.com changed everything. The course was flexible enough to fit around my full-time job, while challenging me enough to prepare me for the career I've always wanted. My tutors were always supportive. Whether it was helping me understand assignments, giving me advice on university interviews or just offering encouragement when I needed it most.

It wasn't just about learning the modules that link directly to Physiotherapy, it also taught me how to be a good student again. The diploma encouraged me to develop different study skills compared to sixth form, that aligned with my learning style more, making me a more rounded and independent learner. I'm proud to say I achieved full distinction, which has given me so much confidence going into the next stage of my journey.

Most importantly, this course has unlocked my dream of becoming a physiotherapist. 12 years on - I now have the qualifications, skills, and belief in myself to do it. In September, I will begin studying Physiotherapy at the University of Sunderland, which feels like a full-circle moment for me. I can't thank DistanceLearningCentre.com enough for helping me finally get back on track towards the career I've always wanted.

To anyone unsure if university is still possible for them, I would now confidently say - don't give up. There are more opportunities out there than you realise, and they can truly change your life.

A step closer to my dream - Kim Senerez

I first dreamed of becoming a doctor when I was just ten years old. I remember sitting in a small classroom in the Philippines, scribbling “Dr.” before my name. From that moment, I worked hard in school, determined to turn that dream into reality. But dreams are often tested by life's circumstances, especially when you don't come from a rich family. The reality of poverty meant that medical school was out of reach for me, and therefore, like many others, I left home to work abroad as a nurse.

The UK became my safe haven. I now work as an ICU Nurse in the NHS—a role that has taught me courage, empathy, and strength to my patients. But despite everything I've achieved, the dream of becoming a doctor never left me.

After thorough research, I discovered DistanceLearningCentre.com. Their Access to Medicine course felt it was made for people like me - working professionals with unfinished dreams. The course's structure, clarity and flexibility was beyond excellent. The learning materials and podcasts were easy to follow, guiding me step by step through challenging content in a way that felt manageable and rewarding.

One of the unexpected blessings of this experience was the community I found through DistanceLearningCentre.com. I formed meaningful connections with fellow students who, like me, were navigating their own challenges. They became my source of encouragement and strength, especially during moments of self-doubt.

Balancing the course with full-time ICU work was challenging. I studied on my days off and even in stolen moments on my breaks at work. There were times I felt exhausted, behind, and full of doubt. Worse, I had to face discouraging remarks from others who questioned my decision. “You're already 30 years old”, they said. “It's too late to start over again”. But despite the noise, I kept going.

My tutor has continuously given me her unwavering support. She was kind, empathetic, responsive, and genuinely invested in my success. Her encouragement and words of wisdom gave me the confidence to keep pushing forward to overcome my struggles. I would never have finished the course without her help.

Despite all the challenges, I completed the course with full distinction. More than just academic success, this course helped me reclaim a dream I once thought was lost.

As of writing, I am preparing for my UCAT exam, hoping to enter medical school in 2026. As I embark to a new chapter of my journey, I carry with me everything DistanceLearningCentre.com gave me: the knowledge, the discipline, and the belief that it's never too late to begin again from zero.

And someday, soon, I will return to that ten-year-old child who once wrote “Dr.” before his name and say: “they said it was too late, but thank God we didn't listen. We made it.”

DistanceLearningCentre.com were incredibly accommodating, offering flexibility and accessibility in a way nowhere else could - Monty Smith

I've just turned 19 years old, and across the past two years, DistanceLearningCentre.com has offered me the opportunity to turn my life around and pursue my dreams. I've received two offers to study Medicine at prestigious universities. Before I started my course, I would've said this was impossible for someone like me.

When I began my Access to Medicine Diploma with DistanceLearningCentre.com, I was just 17, having barely scraped through my GCSEs during the pandemic, a challenge made even harder by a long-term health condition that had me miss a large amount of secondary school. This made my educational experience even more difficult and ruled out my chances at studying A-Levels, the traditional route. Discovering DistanceLearningCentre.com, however, felt like opening a door to the rest of my life.

DistanceLearningCentre.com were incredibly accommodating, offering flexibility and accessibility in a way nowhere else could. I was able to manage my studies whilst working as an HCA in A&E. This meant studying at unusual times and having extra constraints on my availability. My tutor was always accommodating of this and incredibly supportive, offering regular calls and supporting my understanding of complicated topics and providing invaluable support that allowed me to receive all distinctions.

When it came time to study for my UCAT exam, an entrance exam used by medical schools across the UK to determine who they will interview, my tutor and DistanceLearningCentre.com were incredibly helpful. They offered insight into the exam and offered me a study break, letting me put my DistanceLearningCentre.com studies on hold at no extra cost, and take time to focus on this pivotal and extremely challenging exam.

The diploma has provided me with such a firm academic foundation for university and has helped me make huge strides in my own personal development. Proving to myself that despite barely achieving my GCSEs, and against the odds of a demanding work schedule and constantly navigating changing health needs, distinctions are possible, and my future is achievable. I am forever grateful to DistanceLearningCentre.com and can't wait for the next step in my journey.

I would 100% recommend DistanceLearningCentre.com to anybody who is looking to educate themselves - Bliss Talbot

The support from tutors is second to none. Their feedback from submitted work is really useful, but also includes praise where deserved which is an important part for morale. I found the learning materials super insightful and easy to understand, and the use of extra materials given through hyperlinks is a nifty trick to improve understanding of the topic.

I would 100% recommend DistanceLearningCentre.com to anybody who is looking to educate themselves. The tutors also understand that pupils have busy lives, and that unforeseen situations can happen, and are extremely accommodating for that. I also found the podcasts to be an essential resource for achieving high marks, once again, super easy to understand. I cannot thank my tutors enough.

You're never too old to learn new tricks - Nicola Varley

Through the Access to HE Paramedicine online diploma with DistanceLearningCentre.com, I am delighted to have managed to meet the conditions to access my University of choice and secure a place to become a paramedic. Making the decision to return to learning later in life was daunting, but the staff at DistanceLearningCentre.com made the experience enjoyable as well as worthwhile.

The learning materials are thorough and easy to digest. The flexibility allowed me to continue working whilst completing the course. The assessments are challenging, but the tutors are knowledgeable, approachable and supportive. From the tutors to Student Services to Quality Assurance, all staff put the learner at the centre of everything they do.

I cannot thank them enough for the support and encouragement given to enable me to fulfil my ambition to become a future paramedic. If you're considering a career change and think it might be too late for you, give DistanceLearningCentre.com a look and think again. You're never too old to learn new tricks.