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.”

Find out about Advanced Learner Loans

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."

Find out about Advanced Learner Loans

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?”

Read Jen’s story

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.