Inspiring mum rises to the challenge (From Asian Image)

Inspiring mum rises to the challenge

3:21pm Wednesday 12th August 2009

• Print
• Email
• Share

A determined mum of three has shown it is never too late to learn and is hoping to be an inspiration to others in the community.

Ruksana Bodiwala from Preston, is looking forward to a new future as a midwife, thanks to financial support from an Adult Learning Grant (ALG).

Ruksana returned to the classroom aged 36 to study a Level 3 Access Diploma in Nursery, Midwifery and Health.

Ruksana originally enrolled at college to study for A Levels when she was a young mother, but struggled to motivate herself on the courses and left with poor grades.

She worked as an auxiliary nurse at the Royal Preston Hospital before marrying and moving to London with her husband and young children. Now Ruksana is hoping to set a good example to her 14, 11 and six-year old sons by applying to study midwifery at the University of Central Lancashire, a decision prompted by her own experience of miscarriage and stillbirth.

She said, “If any other women were thinking about returning to college I would tell them to go for it!

“See if you are eligible for an ALG. At the end of the day, you are bettering your own life and no-one will ever be able to take those qualifications away from you.”

She added, “My first day back at college two years ago was really daunting, and I can’t say it was easy juggling all of my assignments, family life, housework and caring for three children.

“But it’s definitely worth it in the long run.”

Sabbir Musa, Student Support Manager at Preston College said: “Ruksana is one of many adult learners at Preston College who are helped through their studies at Preston College by an Adult Learning Grant.

“The allowance helps them to purchase course books and travel to and from College.”

The Learning and Skills Council (LSC) offers a package of support for adult learners, such as the ALG, which pays up to £30 a week to help adults aged 19 or over and studying full-time and for their first full Level 2 or Level 3 qualification - equivalent to five good GCSEs or two A-levels - with the costs of learning.

If you are thinking about going back to college, ALG could help you. To find out more information and whether you are eligible call 0800 100 900 today.

• Print
• Email
• Share