Marshland Mum returns to classroom, thanks to grant
A ROAD accident inspired a Marshland mum to head back to the classroom and turn her life around.
Debbie Myring (37), of Walpole Highway, left school with two O levels and soon became a full-time mum before working as a part-time teaching assistant.
But when her eldest son Rhys, now 17, was involved in an accident while out on his moped last year, it acted as a turning point in her life.
Ms Myring said: "The phone call I received to tell me my son had been hit by a car stopped me in my tracks. The flashing lights and sirens and the shock of seeing my son injured on the ground came as a real jolt.
"It led to a very difficult time for me, but eventually inspired me to try something new in my own life."
With her son fully recovered, Mrs Myring transformed her life through hard work, determination and a helping hand from the Learning and Skills Council.
Thanks to an Adult Learning Grant (ALG) of 30 a week, she is able to attend Lynn's College of West Anglia and has just completed the first term of an access to human science course.
The dedicated mum is studying human biology, psychology, maths and information technology, which she fits around looking after Rhys, who works in Wisbech, and her two daughters Ellen (14) and five year-old Mysanwy.
She said: "When I left school I was sure I didn't want to continue in education. But after my son's accident, I realised the time had come to broaden my horizons and see what else the world had to offer.
"Receiving the ALG payments has been incredibly helpful. It pays for books and fuel costs in getting to college each day.
"I felt guilty taking money out of the household budget to pursue my ambitions and the grant has really made the difference. It's a fantastic help.
"I was nervous going back to college, knowing that I would be the oldest in the class after so much time out. There really wasn't anything to worry about though.
"I've made good friends and have supportive tutors. I knew I owed it to myself to make the most of my skills."
Adult learning grants pay up to 30 per week to help adults aged 19 or over with the cost of studying full-time for their first full qualification of five good GCSEs, two A levels or equivalent.
After completing her course next year, Debbie hopes to go on to study for an honours degree in psychosocial studies at the college.
To find out about your eligibility, potential ALG candidates are advised to call 0800 100 900 or visit the website at www.direct.gov.uk/alg
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Weather for King's Lynn
Sunday 27 May 2012
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