Access to HE learners receive funding for first year at university

Gateway Qualifications Scholarship Supports Access to HE Students on their Journey to UEL

Each year, three Gateway Qualifications’ Access to HE students heading to the University of East London are awarded a £1,500 scholarship by the university to support their first year of study. It’s a small boost with a big impact, recognising hard work and ambition.

This year, Mouhamed Kaire and Svetoslava Georgieva were among the recipients. Their stories demonstrate the transformative impact of the Access to HE Diploma.

Mouhamed Kaire: Stepping stone toward a better future

Stepping back into education, Mouhamed chose the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Computing) at Waltham Forest College to pursue his passion for tech. “It was challenging,” he admits, “but it gave me the confidence and academic skills and self-belief I needed to progress to university.”

With supportive tutors and a structured course, Mouhamed found his stride and is now studying Data Science at the University of East London.

When he learned he’d been awarded the scholarship, he was thrilled. “It felt like my hard work had paid off,” he says. His dream is to make a meaningful impact in the tech industry and build a successful life.

To anyone who didn’t come through the traditional A-level route and is looking to pursue higher education, Mouhamed thinks you should go for it! “It’s not always easy, but if you stay focused, ask for help when you need it, and manage your time well, it’s definitely achievable. It is a powerful stepping stone toward a better future.”

It is a powerful stepping stone toward a better future.

Mouhamed Kaire, Access to HE Student, Waltham Forest College

Svetoslava Georgieva: A future in podiatry

Taking on the Access to Higher Education Diploma (Health Science) at Newham College gave Svetoslava the scientific foundation she needed and the confidence to chase her goals. “It was intensive,” she says, “but it prepared me for university.” She credits her tutors, especially Miss Ah-Yam Chan, for keeping her motivated and playing a significant role in her success.

Now studying Podiatry at UEL, Svetoslava is focused on becoming a successful professional and opening her own clinic. Receiving the scholarship was a moment of validation: “All the effort I put in during the year was worth it.”

Svetoslava’s advice to future Access to HE learners is never give up; “Don’t forget where you are going and never give up. There are many tasks to complete on the diploma, but it prepares you for university and builds confidence.”

Don't forget where you are going and never give up. There are many tasks to complete on the diploma, but it prepares you for university and builds confidence.

Svetoslava Georgieva, Access to HE Student, Newham College

Macy Kirk: Catching up with a previous scholarship recipient

A previous recipient of the scholarship is Macy Kirk. Now entering her third year at UEL. Macy’s journey has been full of growth and unexpected achievements.

“University has been an experience with lots of ups and downs,” she shared. “But getting an ADHD diagnosis changed everything. It’s helped me understand myself better and improve both my mental and physical health.”

Macy is thriving academically, achieving marks in the 70-80% range. “I never thought I had it in me! But I found that the less pressure I put on myself and the more I immersed myself in the content, the better I did.”

The University of East London provides support that is transformative. “From assignment feedback to readiness-to-practice panels, the recognition and care I’ve received is second to none.

“UEL has helped me see the world, and myself, in a whole new way. I’ve rebuilt my self-esteem, I learned boundaries and discovered self-love. I’m now on placement at Basildon Mind, working with my own clients. It’s incredible. I’m helping change lives, and they’re changing mine too.”

Reflecting on her Access to HE experience, Macy said: “The fast pace of Access to HE taught me time management and how to handle priorities. It made university feel less overwhelming, especially compared to peers who didn’t do Access to HE.”

The scholarship made a real difference. “It helped me survive as a full-time student and single parent. It covered travel, equipment, and essentials that made studying possible. I’m forever thankful.”

Looking ahead, Macy is excited for the final year and plans to train a therapy dog. “I’m actively looking for well-being roles in schools and colleges, something that works for both me and my daughter. Fingers crossed!”

Access to HE learners receive funding for first year at university

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