Courses studied: Short Courses, Pre-Access Programme, Access to HE Diploma (Social Sciences & Health)
Year studied: 2020–2021
“Fircroft genuinely changed my life.”
When Clare first came to Fircroft College, she was at a turning point in her life. Struggling with poor mental health and unable to see a future in her career, she had lost confidence in herself and didn’t believe university was an option.
Having left school without completing her education, Clare thought she had reached the limit of what she could achieve. Following the recommendation of her mental health nurse, she enrolled on a short course at Fircroft a decision that would transform her future..
Why Fircroft College?
After completing several short courses and the Pre-Access programme, Clare progressed onto the Access to HE Diploma in Social Sciences and Health.
Studying in Fircroft’s residential environment gave her the space to focus entirely on learning. During her studies, she discovered she had learning disabilities, and with personalised support from tutors and staff, she developed the confidence and belief that higher education was within reach.
“Fircroft helped me understand that things could be different for me. It unlocked my ambition and helped me imagine a different future.”
The experience didn’t just change Clare’s approach to education—it transformed her personal life too.
She rebuilt her confidence, strengthened relationships, prioritised her wellbeing and began creating the future she wanted for herself.
Where is Clare now?
Since leaving Fircroft, Clare has achieved more than she ever thought possible.
- Graduated with a First Class Psychology degree
- Nearing completion of her Master’s degree (MSc)
- Built a career working in Students’ Unions, supporting higher education students
- Planning to undertake a doctorate
Clare credits Fircroft with helping her discover a passion for social justice and giving her the confidence to pursue ambitious goals.
“The tutors helped me realise that potential is something you control.”
Impact and Outcomes
Looking back, Clare believes her life would have been very different without Fircroft.
She may never have gone to university or found the career she now loves. More importantly, she learned to prioritise herself, build meaningful relationships, marry her best friend and rediscover her love of gardening.
Today, she even has a plum tree of her own—one she hopes will one day rival the famous plum trees at Fircroft.
Clare’s Advice for Future Students
“Keep reminding yourself that you can. You are exactly where you need to be right now, and you have everything you need to make choices that will take you where you want to be. With the right support, you can achieve what you want to.”
