Unconditional university offer for DSA student Heather

After 6 years of study with Cambridge Regional College, Heather Tiplady is thrilled to have received an unconditional offer with Leeds Trinity University to complete a top-up degree in Business. 

24-year-old Heather first enrolled with CRC after completing her A-Levels at St. Ivo Academy, St Ives. An additional online qualification in Hospitality inspired Heather to further her learning in the Culinary Arts industry. Heather enrolled on the Level 1 Professional Cookery Diploma and progressed in her studies, completing Level 2 and 3 Diplomas in Hospitality. 

but Level 4 Hospitality was not offered. I had to re-think, and on the basis that Business is a subject that is relevant to all sectors, I chose to do Level 3 Business with the intention of progressing through Level 4 HNC and Level 5 HND.

The course content was entirely new to me, and the pandemic affected my learning significantly. I live with Asperger’s Syndrome, and this affects my ability to forge relationships and cope in certain social situations. The support I have received has been fantastic. I have received the time and understanding that I needed to succeed, and I felt confident in approaching my tutors if I was having a really bad day or needed feedback on my work. Having tutors that responded to my needs, has helped me to manage situations that I find challenging. I was introduced to a wide range of support on offer to students with additional needs and, under my DSA plan, I was provided with support equipment and software, such as Mindview to help with planning and Claroread+ which helps me with reading text. I have developed as an individual, growing in confidence and identifying coping strategies to support my learning and social interactions.”

Heather is nearing completion of her Level 5 Business Diploma and since submitting her UCAS application, she has secured an unconditional offer from Leeds Trinity University and has applications in process with other universities. 

Heather added, “When I submitted my UCAS application I applied for two courses: Business with Marketing and Business Management. My offer is for the Business Management degree, but I am quite a creative person and I believe that Marketing is something I could be good at. Either way, I am thrilled to have a university offer. I like the idea of going away to study and the opportunity for independent living. I am also thinking ahead to where the job market may be more buoyant. In March, I am attending the offer holder day where I will meet other prospective students and the lecturers that deliver the course. I am looking forward to the next stage in my journey.” 

Find out more about studying HE Business at Cambridge Regional College.