Aspiring teacher ready for uni thanks to Access course

An Access to Teaching student from South Essex College has gained a place at university after returning to education.

Demi Barlett is 21 and didn’t pursue higher education at 18 as she didn’t feel confident enough. That’s all changed thanks to one of the college’s Access courses, available at the Southend Campus.

The college’s Access courses allow mature students to return to education and prepare individuals for degree study regardless of previous qualifications.

Demi, from Basildon, has secured a place at the University of East London to study Childhood Education. She plans to obtain her qualified teaching status and become a primary school teacher in the future.

She said: “I would definitely recommend the course to other aspiring teachers, you learn so much about teaching and also feel ready to progress onto university even after being out of education for so long.”

Anne Tothill, Lecturer in Education, said: “I’m really proud of Demi. It is difficult to return to education but from the moment Demi enrolled on the course she has gained in confidence and skills. 

“The Access course has opened the door to university and a career in teaching. She will be an asset to her university and is a wonderful example of what can be achieved through lifelong learning.”

The college offers a large selection of courses for adults. The provision includes Access courses in areas such as counselling, criminology and science plus teacher training and evening and weekend courses.

Attend the college’s New Year, New You event on Tuesday 14 January to find out more about Access courses. Click here for more information.