2016-2017

Given me the confidence needed to return to University, and develop vital skills - Kate Atkinson

Fab5 Award Nominee

I originally started study at University when I left school at 18, but had to leave in my second year when I developed an anxiety disorder. I have always regretted this so in the summer of 2016 I made the decision to try and return to University to achieve my ambition of one day working in the field of Biomedical Science.

Having been out of formal education for almost 10 years, I was unsure if I still had the focus and commitment needed to complete a course, so thought completing an Access to HE course would be a good way to find out. As I live in a remote area there was no option for a face-to-face course so started looking online at distance learning. This is how I discovered DistanceLearningCentre.com.

I started my course in November 2016 with the aim of starting University in September 2017, so had to work quickly! At first it was a struggle to fit studies around the demands of my full time job and volunteer work as a Cub Leader, but with the help of my tutor I managed to set achievable deadlines and complete all modules with distinctions.

DistanceLearningCentre.com has given me the confidence needed to return to University, and develop vital skills from academic writing to independent study and organizational skills. The support given by the tutors is amazing, and they are always available to answer any questions you may have. I have gained a place on my first choice course at the University of Leeds, and would definitely recommend DistanceLearningCentre.com to anyone looking to complete a distance-learning course. (Jun 2017)

I achieved grades above my individual expectations due to the support I was given - Jasmine Johnson

Fab5 Award Nominee

I started the Access to Midwifery with little to no confidence and never dreamed that I would achieve the grades I did. I was an interior designer and owned my own company that I had lost the passion for. I wanted a job that was more fulfilling, meaningful and that served a purpose! I was very much coming out of a nasty spell of postnatal depression with my second child and this course enabled me to gain the confidence I had lost!

My tutors never failed to be understanding of my situation. Both my tutors gave me guidance and were empathetic toward the circumstance around my studies. They encouraged me above and beyond, and this is why I feel I pushed forth! Besides the postnatal depression that occurred very late postnatally I acquired a new addition that was born prematurely whilst on the course. My tutors swiftly replied my emails when I would email them from hospital on countless occasions within my pregnancy.

I found strength within the vulnerability of my postnatal depression. I feel my tutors support inspired me to follow my dream. You can follow yours! If I can do it, you can! Finding a fulfilling career is finding the courage to pursue your passion. My tutors encouraged me to do this and helped me along my journey of becoming a student midwife. I can't thank my tutors enough for their encouragement!

I am extremely grateful for having had the opportunity to do my Access to Midwifery within the comfort of my own home and at my own pace. I achieved grades above my individual expectations due to the support I was given. I'm currently preparing to apply to university for my dream career and DistanceLearningCentre.com helped me get here! (Jun 2017)

By completing this Diploma, my academic skills have improved enormously - Sergio Falero Fernandez

Fab5 Award Nominee

Originally from Seville in Spain I decided to move to the UK 5 years ago when I was made redundant in my job as camera man. When I arrived I realised that my English was not as good as I thought and I didn't get a job as a camera man for 3 years which was very disappointing. I had 2 options - either go home to Spain or try to re-train. I researched a degree in Diagnostic Radiography and this is when I applied for my Access Diploma (Health Professions).

By completing this Diploma, my academic skills have improved enormously. This was a very good starting point for my first year at University. My two tutors were very helpful always answering my questions through email or phone call tutorials. They provided feedback to me to help structure my work but more importantly, they challenged me to do better in my assignments.

DistanceLearningCentre.com has allowed me to develop my skills in time management and independent thinking - both of which are essential for studying at University. Also, thanks to the Diploma I have a good base knowledge of science which is directly related to my chosen degree. I genuinely believe my tutors were excellent; knowledgeable, thorough and constantly driving me forward to be better. Without their feedback and guidance, I do not think I would have excelled in receiving all Distinctions in my assignments. (Jun 2017)

Very helpful and supportive throughout the year - Letesha Roberts-Edwards

I was in a place where I was ready to kick-start my career in becoming a midwife, but because I'm employed I could not study Access to Midwifery at a college, this is when I came across DistanceLearningCentre.com who were very helpful and supportive throughout the year.

My ambitions were to complete my Diploma and start the Degree the following year, but now that I have finished, instead of going to University I will be following a different path that will also lead me towards my goal. (Jun 2017)

The skills I've learnt will be invaluable on my journey through University - Dawn Russell

Fab5 Award Nominee

I worked for an ambulance service for 10 years whilst I had a young family. My goal was to become a paramedic but my grades were considered out of date by the time I could commit to such studies. I needed to update them in order to gain a place at University. The Access to Higher Education Diploma was ideal; widely accepted and recognised by the Universities.

I was initially petrified at the thought of returning to study after 20 years, but I didn't need to be. Everyone from the very beginning was very supportive and helpful. My tutor quickly put me at ease and my journey began!

Throughout my Diploma, the tutors have been friendly, understanding, encouraging and enthusiastic. All of my concerns were answered promptly and feedback was always well delivered. It was challenging but the learning materials were very thorough and easy to work through. I've learnt to become self-motivated and disciplined with my time as I have completed this Diploma whilst working full time and raising a family. It just proves it can be done! The skills I've learnt will be invaluable on my journey through University.

I have gone from being a disorganised individual with no study experience for over 20 years and little confidence in my ability to obtain my goals, to achieving Distinctions and securing a place at my chosen University.

I look back proudly at my achievements and look forward to using my new found academic skills in my future. (Jun 2017)