Valerie Hewison
Stepping out of her comfort zone has become a regular occurrence for Valerie Hewison. Born with cerebral palsy, Valerie was told she was “too much bother” when she tried to re - enrol on a computer course, yet was determined to gain an education. She is now on her second year of an Access to Higher Education programme and will be starting university in September to study a degree in Community Health and Sociology.
Cerebral palsy meant that Valerie had impaired speech and mobility problems and, as a result, she had limited opportunities at school and was only taught primary-level English and Maths until the age of 16. Five years later, she enrolled on a GCSE course, but was told not to return the following year whatever her grades because accommodating special needs was “too much bother”. Regardless of the put down, Valerie battled on doing numerous other courses elsewhere, but unfortunately often faced similar discriminating attitudes and finally resigned herself to being put off education for good.
After attending a presentation during Adult Learners’ Week 2007, and hearing how education can open up opportunities and improve well-being, Valerie enrolled on an Access to Higher Education course. Since then, she has achieved distinction grades in most of her subjects, all at Level 3. She has delivered presentations, including one on disability awareness, to staff and fellow students. She has also joined the Disability Forum wanting to raise the profile of disability issues in the college.
“Learning has transformed my life,” said Valerie. “I see my learning experience as a stepping stone to further learning opportunities. The Access course has expanded my knowledge, increased my motivation and given me the incentive to study at degree level, something I’ve always wanted but never thought possible.”