No regrets after 25 years out of education

Posted on: 2 February 2024 by Melissa Churchil in alumni stories

I became a student at Go Higher in September 2020 (during the Covid lockdown).

As a mature student who left school without taking my GCSE's, the prospect of going back into the education system seemed pretty daunting. University seemed unattainable for the likes of me, after all I'd been out of education for over 25 years, why would I subject myself to such torture?

This mentality came from an old, conditioned mindset I'd adopted after what I can only describe as a difficult time in secondary school. I had dyscalculia and dyslexia, so would sometimes struggle with processing information the first time around.

I fell significantly behind in school, which ultimately led to me dropping out at thirteen. My fear of maths was palpable and something that had held me back for many years.

However, I knew I had to act as life was passing me by. I really wanted to experience university life but I didn't know where to begin. After an extensive search online I found Go Higher and signed myself up. It was a profound moment for me as I'd finally taken that initial step!

The 2020 course was done entirely online via Zoom, but we far from missed out. My lecturers were down to earth, funny and bent over backwards to help. 

Yes, maths caused some anxiety but they adapted their teaching technique to suit individual needs until we got those eureka moments!

Learning became fun, I especially enjoyed Philosophy and English Literature! I made lifelong friends during my time at Go Higher and thoroughly enjoyed the experience.

Go Higher gave me the confidence and qualifications needed to pursue a career I'm passionate about. 

I'm now enrolled onto a university course and have just joined Cheshire Constabulary Police. 

Take that leap of faith, I can guarantee it'll be worth it.