After more than two decades working in healthcare, Faeeza Jamal made the life-changing decision to return to education and pursue her ambition of becoming a physiotherapist. Currently studying the Access to Higher Education – Allied Health Professions course at Bradford College, she is balancing family life, part-time work and academic study while preparing for the next stage of her career.
Having spent the last 22 years working as a Senior Physiotherapy Assistant, Faeeza already knew where she wanted her future to lead. The Access course provided the opportunity to gain the qualifications, confidence and academic skills needed to progress to university and take the next step towards her goal.
“It’s been a fantastic experience,” Faeeza said. “It’s really given me the confidence to study at a high academic level again and take that leap towards becoming a physiotherapist.”
Taking the Leap Back into Education
Returning to education after such a long break was a significant decision, but one driven by a clear ambition. The course has already helped Faeeza achieve an important milestone, securing university offers and proving to herself that she can succeed academically.
“The course is the equivalent of my three A Levels and the pathway I needed to get into university,” she explained. “I’ve now recieved offers from all but one of my university choices, which has been a huge achievement for me.”
Balancing Family, Work and Study
Alongside her studies, Faeeza has been balancing a busy family life with her husband and four children while continuing to work part-time. Despite the challenges that come with returning to education as an adult learner, she has embraced the experiences and drawn on skills she has developed throughout her life and career.
Having already worked within the NHS for many years, Faeeza understands the profession she is working towards and believes the course has helped bridge the gap between experience and qualification. “It’s given me the confidence to study at that high academic level and take that leap of faith,” she said.
Building Confidence for the Future
One of the Faeeza’s proudest achievements has been proving to herself that she can thrive in education after such a long time away from the classroom. The last thing she studied for A Levels was in 1998, making her return both challenging and rewarding.
“This course has really helped me,” she said. “Bradford College and my tutors especially have really pushed me, and I feel I’ve engaged really well. I’ve achieved distinctions in every assignment and it’s given me the confidence to study further.”
Throughout her journey, Faeeza credits the support of her tutors and the college environment for helping her succeed. Their encouragement and guidance have given her the confidence to pursue opportunities she once thought were out of reach, putting her firmly on the path towards becoming a physiotherapist.
Advice for Adult Learners
Having successfully returned to education, Faeeza has a clear message for other adults considering take the same step. While balancing study with work and family responsibilities can feel challenging at first, she believes the life skills gained through experience can become one of your greatest strengths.
“I’d say go for it,” she said. “It’s different and it can feel a bit overwhelming at times, but you can take skills you already have like time management and you can fuse other life experiences into your studies. It’s just knowing how to best utilise them.”
Studying at Bradford College
Faeeza is equally positive about her experience at Bradford College, highlighting the support she has recieved throughout her studies. She describes the college as a welcoming environment, with tutors who are committed to helping students succeed both during their course and beyond.
“The tutors are very supportive and it’s a nice space to learn,” she explained. “You’ve got lots of opportunities, facilities and career guidance. It’s not just about studying; it’s about helping you understand what you can do next as well.”
Looking Ahead
With university offers secured and a place at the University of Bradford firmly in her sights, Faeeza is preparing to take the next step towards her goal of becoming a physiotherapist. Her experience is proof that it’s never too late to pursue a new ambition. Through hard work, determination and the right support, she has transformed years of professional experience into a pathway towards a new future in healthcare.
Thinking about returning to education? Explore our Access to Higher Education courses at Bradford College and discover where your next chapter could take you.