Life at Activate Learning
Eleanor Richards started her journey with Activate Learning by enrolling in the Access to Allied Health Professions: Online Level 3 Diploma, which she completed in March 2024. Her decision to pursue this course stemmed from a desire to further her knowledge in psychology and biology, areas she had long been passionate about.
Eleanor was a support worker and holistic therapist before deciding to dedicate her time to pursuing her education. She is also a mother to four boys, so had to balance her course commitments with full-time parenting responsibilities.
Reflecting on her experience returning to education later in life, Eleanor said: “To begin with, I felt like I’d bitten off more than I could chew. I had tried to do an Access course at another college years ago but didn’t complete it, so I was a little nervous this time round.”
“But when I started to break it down into bite-sized chunks and take it step by step, it became more manageable.
“I also got a lot of support from my tutor, who was amazing, and got an extension to help me with the deadline. When you have that extra support, it just encourages you to keep going,” she added.
Favourite memories
Throughout her time as an Activate Learning student, Eleanor recalls the invaluable support she received from her tutors. Despite moments of doubt and uncertainty, the guidance provided by her tutors served as a beacon of encouragement, motivating her to push through obstacles and strive for excellence.
Eleanor said: “The feedback I received from my tutors was a highlight for me, as it gave me the push I needed to get through the course.
“My tutors, Iran, Ben and Samantha, were brilliant throughout, especially in moments when I was feeling overwhelmed and needed that extra encouragement.”
“Also, getting my results back on my assignment was such a shock to me. It was really positive, and I am so pleased with how much I’ve achieved.”
Plans for the future
Having recently completed her course, Eleanor is now deciding on her next steps. With a keen interest in mental health and a desire to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives, she is considering various avenues for further study and career advancement.
Eleanor is exploring options such as pursuing a counselling pathway or gaining experience through volunteering, with a focus on supporting individuals facing mental health challenges.
She said: “I want to be in a career where I can support people, that would be my goal. I’m particularly interested in working in mental health and I’m looking into studying counselling at City of Oxford College and University Centre.”
“The careers team at Activate Learning was really helpful in helping me figure out my options.”
Advice on returning to education
Eleanor offers some words of wisdom for others wanting to return to education later in life. She emphasises the importance of perseverance and taking challenges one step at a time, urging students not to be deterred by setbacks or moments of doubt.
She said: “Just do it. Try not to overthink things. Take bite-sized chunks instead of looking at the whole picture, as that’s when you can get overwhelmed.
“If you have an assignment, for example, write 200 words a day or do one question a day. Then, before you know it, you’ll be at the end.
“It’s also really important to reach out if you’re struggling, as your tutors are there to help you and want you to succeed.”