Healthcare – Kaylie
Having achieved her GCSEs in English and Maths, Kaylie continued her studies through the Access to HE: Health Science Professions adult course. The programme equipped her with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to prepare for higher education and her future in healthcare.
Despite balancing study alongside work and family commitments, Kaylie successfully completed the course and secured a place to study Paramedic Science at Sheffield Hallam University. She now looks forward to starting her degree and working towards a career in frontline healthcare.
Why did you choose to study your course?
“I returned to education to complete my English and Maths qualifications and, once I’d done that, I realised I wanted to go to university.
“To gain entry, I needed to complete the Access course. As I’ve progressed through it, it’s opened up more opportunities, and now I’m looking forward to studying Paramedic Science.
“I also looked at Nursing, Occupational Therapy and Midwifery, but Paramedic Science felt like the right fit for me. I enjoy being out and about, working in different environments and getting involved, rather than being based in one place.”
Which skills have you developed during your course?
“One of the biggest things I’ve developed is learning how to manage stress and work under pressure. I’ve also improved my academic writing, particularly referencing and citations, which are essential at this level. Making sure my sources are accurate has become a really valuable skill.
“The course has also improved my Maths and broadened my understanding of healthcare. I already understood anatomy and physiology, but studying topics such as the welfare state, NHS pressures and healthcare policy really opened my eyes to the wider picture.”
How did college support you during your studies?
“I couldn’t thank Dan and Aigul enough for the support they’ve given me throughout the course. I’ve experienced bereavement and other pressures during the year, but they’ve always been there to help.
“When I missed time following my grandmother’s death, they extended assignment deadlines where needed, helped me catch up and regularly checked in on me to make sure I was okay. They’re available by email, phone or in person whenever you need them, and they’ve always been approachable and supportive.
“The College also provides excellent access to library resources, journals and online research tools, which have been invaluable when completing assignments and referencing academic sources.”
What part of the course have you enjoyed the most?
“The practical sessions were definitely my favourite, especially dissecting a kidney and a heart. They really brought the science to life.
“I also enjoyed learning about safeguarding, the welfare state and healthcare policy. They challenged my thinking and encouraged me to look at topics from different perspectives.
“The presentation assessment also helped build my confidence in speaking in front of others.”
Can you share any challenges you have overcome?
“One of the biggest challenges I faced was losing my grandmother during the course. I missed nearly two weeks while spending time with my family and attending the funeral.
“The support from my tutors was incredible. They gave me extra time where I needed it, regularly checked in on me and made sure I had everything I needed to catch up.
“Even during that difficult time, I wanted to continue attending lessons because I didn’t want to fall behind. Once I was able to focus on my studies again, I really thrived and completed the course successfully.”
Do you have any advice for future students?
“Do your best and don’t put too much pressure on yourself. Try to find a healthy balance between studying, work and family life.
“Stay organised, complete your assignments as you go and don’t leave the year-long project until the last minute. It makes everything much more manageable.
“Most importantly, enjoy the course and make the most of the experience.”
Where do you see yourself in five years?
“I’ve secured a place at Sheffield Hallam University to study Paramedic Science, and I’m excited to begin the next stage of my journey.
“Following this, I hope to complete my degree and work as a paramedic, helping to save lives.”
Find out more about Access to Higher Education courses at North Notts College
