Returning to education
From a range of starting points our adult students achieve their ambitions at City and Islington College.
Through determination, our fantastic teaching and learning, plus financial support through Advanced Learner Loans, the goal of going to university or enhancing your job prospects can be reached.
Below are the real life stories of our students evidencing how returning to education is not only possible, it can also change your life.
Mariya Seven
Studied: Health and Human Sciences - Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: Nursing Studies at King's College London
“I have always dreamed of becoming a nurse and being able to have positive impact on individuals. After long years of searching, City and Islington College answered my questions and helped me achieve my dream. I now have offered places from two of the best universities in the world for Nursing Studies! They always supported me and encouraged me to reach my full potential. The college also prepared me very well for the university interviews, so I was very confident when I attended them.”
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Brandan Preece
Studied: Diploma in Accounting Level 4
Destination: Working for an accountancy firm
My career ambition is to have a clothing brand and the accountancy course prepared me for a lot of the things it takes to run a business. The tutors were inspiring and always have time for you – they go above and beyond. The college atmosphere has a buzz which helps you be excited to learn. My classmates were all really nice, which meant there was always a thriving classroom environment."
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Erica Fontaine
Studied: Health and Human Sciences - Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: Nursing Studies at Middlesex University
City and Islington College is a great place to study because of the support and encouragement that is offered by the tutors and members of staff. It is a special place because of its diverse cohort, there's such a range of different ages, races, religions and learning abilities.
The highlight of the course was the new skills and knowledge that I acquired during the process. I learnt to be confident about myself which increased my self-determination. Another aspect of the course was the new friendships that I had formed and support that I got from everyone. This course taught me never to give up on a dream and it’s never too late achieve your goals.
The course is also very supportive to your individual needs; I'm a single parent but was able to balance studying and other responsiblilities without jeopardising or compromising any one of them."
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Jen Haddrell
Studied: Business – Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: Was working in a bar, now progressing to City University to study a degree in management
She said: “I had got to the point in my twenties when I asked myself what am I doing with my life?”
Inspired? Don't hesitate to contact us now to find out about how Advanced Learner Loans and the adult courses we offer can make your return to education possible.
Bonnie Ritchie
Studied: Humanities and Social Science – Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: Will study a LLB (Hons) Law at the University of Law
She said: ““There is a lot of stigma around young parents not working or having an education, but I have refused to be that parent.”
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George Zambas
Studied: Medicine and Medical Biosciences – Access to Higher Education
Destination: Left school with one GCSE, now studying medicine at Brighton and Sussex Medical School.
He said: "The College has a great support network in place for adult students and at no point did I feel alone in what I was trying to achieve."
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Anabel Pepecucu Saelo
Studied: Foundation Diploma in Art and Design
Destination: Was working in McDonald's now progressing to study at the London College of Fashion.
She said: “Taking out a Government funded 24+ loan made my return to education possible.”
Bernadette Van Gaalen
Studied: Social Science – Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: Progressing to Goldsmith’s University to study Philosophy, Politics and Economics
She said: “For me, it has given me resolve and a true belief in my ability to achieve as a student, woman and mother.”
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Andrew Reedie
Studied: Teaching – Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: Was working as a PA now is progressing to Roehampton University to study a BA in Teaching
He said: “As soon as I started the course I was treated with respect and like an adult."
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Mackayla Forde
Studied: Medicine and Medical Biosciences – Access to Higher Education
Destination: Single mum working in retail management now set to study a BA in Public Health and Health Promotion at the University of East London.
She said: “Go for it. You have nothing to lose and you will surprise yourself when you realise what can be achieved.”
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Kemi Mode
Studied: Social Work – Access to Higher Education Diploma
Destination: University to study a BA in Social Work
She said: “I would encourage those who want to improve themselves and who want to go to university to do it.”
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Louisa Wilson
Studied: Medicine and Medical Biosciences – Access to Higher Education
Destination: Was told to give up studying science at school, now progressing to University College London to study Applied Medical Science
She said: “To be able to set that example for your children is empowering and is something that nobody can ever take from you."
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Spencer Carter
Studied: Medicine and Medical Biosciences – Access to Higher Education
Destination: Was working as a Surveyor, is now studying Dentistry at King’s College London
He said: “I am evidence now that these routes are possible and that you can return to education, work hard, aim high and achieve your ambitions.”
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Advanced Learner Loans
If you are aged 19+ there is help available to fund your course. Take a look here.
Apply now - adult courses
From entry level to higher education we have the right course for you. See our adult courses.
Access to HE
Didn't study A Levels but want to go to university? Access courses will help you achieve your ambition.
Courses For Adults Guide
Download the Courses For Adults Guide 2018-19, view the interactive guide online or order your copy