Lesley studied Functional Skills English Level 1, progressed to GCSE English, and is now working towards GCSE Maths as she builds a pathway into studying Science.
For Lesley, a lifelong love of science has sparked a remarkable return to education. Her journey has been shaped by resilience, determination, and an unwavering desire to build a future in the subject she loves.
Lesley began her studies by completing Functional Skills English Level 1 in 2024, and soon after progressed to GCSE English, achieving a Grade 3 in June 2025. Refusing to give up on her goals, she joined the November 2025 re‑sit class and proudly achieved her Grade 4. She is now studying GCSE Maths, working steadily toward the grade she needs to take her next step. Once she secures a Grade 4 in Maths, Lesley plans to study Science, something she has dreamed of since childhood.
Overcoming Barriers: Learning While Caring
Lesley has been a full‑time carer for her mum, who is blind, throughout her childhood and into adulthood. Because of this responsibility, she missed a significant amount of school when she was younger. When she first started college, she arrived with very low confidence, unsure of her abilities or whether she belonged in education at all.
But from her very first lessons, her commitment was clear. Getting out of the house can be challenging, especially on busy caring days, but education quickly became her space and a chance for personal growth and independence. As Lesley shared:
“It’s a bit difficult on a Tuesday getting out, but I do it because it is important to me to get the qualifications.”
Despite the daily pressures of caring, she continues to attend, participate, and make progress. Her confidence has grown with every achievement, and she is now excited about her future studies.
Reaching for the Stars
Lesley’s ambitions stretch far beyond the classroom. Science, particularly astronomy, has always fascinated her. She is still considering whether to specialise in biology or chemistry, but she knows one thing for certain: she wants a future in science.
“I love science and astronomy in particular. I don’t know if I want to study biology or chemistry, but I really like both. In the future, I want to use my qualifications to get a job maybe as a chemist or something else science‑related.”
What once felt out of reach is now firmly within sight. With every qualification she earns, Lesley moves closer to her goal of working in a scientific field and transforming her passion into a career.
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