Nichola Wilkinson - Bachelor of Education
The University of Derby is enabling me to move into the next phase of my life and am very grateful for the support everyone has given
”Background
I am a married 32 year old with two gorgeous boys aged 7 and 5. Much to my poor parents dismay I left school at 16 to work at a riding stables even though I achieved 9 GCSE's grade B. I stayed there for 2 years and earned a variety of Riding Instructor qualifications. Subsequently, I returned to the college I had left and completed my 'A' Levels. Following this I attended a secretarial and IT course which took me in to the Court Service where I stayed for 8 years. In 2009, I came to a point in my life, after I had had the boys, and realised that if I was going to have a change of direction now was the time to do it. The 'A' Levels that I got did not give me enough points to get on the B.Ed so I enrolled on the Foundation course which enabled me to gain a place. The interview was so nerve racking and it was the longest day of my life waiting to see if I had got a place. I was ecstatic when the offer came through!
Achievements
Over the last 2 years I have encountered many challenges but ultimately these have made my achievements all the more sweeter. Achieving "Outstanding" for both my placements so far has been something I am very proud of especially as I have to juggle a home life with young children.
The University of Derby
I can honestly say I have no regrets about the path that my life has taken. If I had not made the choices I have, I may not have met my husband, had my children, live in my house and have made the friends I have.
The University of Derby is enabling me to move into the next phase of my life and am very grateful for the support everyone has given. I am really excited and honoured about being asked to be a "Subject Ambassador." If I can encourage others, especially mature students, to take the chance I have and benefit immensely, then I will be "over the moon!"
