Clare, who works as a nursery manager in Horsforth, initially applied to study Primary Education at Leeds Trinity back in 2002, but decided not to pursue the course because she was a new mum and the timing “did not feel right”.  She decided to apply again 20 years later and chose Leeds Trinity for a second time because of its reputation for teacher training and its welcoming environment for mature students. 

“At first, I was really scared. I honestly thought I was too old to do it. I was the oldest on my course and it definitely knocked my confidence,” Clare said. “But you've just got to take a risk sometimes. If you don't try, you never know whether it's going to work out or not. And it might not have done, but it has, and I would never have known.” 

Self-doubt and managing workloads were the main challenges Clare had to overcome to complete her degree. Juggling family commitments, work and studies was demanding, but having a strong support system at Leeds Trinity, in her lecturers and peers, and at home, in her husband and children, made all the difference. 

“Lecturers really helped boost my confidence. My personal tutor, especially, always encouraged me when I didn’t believe in myself,” Clare recalls. “The biggest challenge was coping with the amount of work without asking for deadline extensions. It can get overwhelming, especially alongside other responsibilities. I tried to make the most of the support available and it made a huge difference. The student support is great, and lecturers and peers were also really helpful.” 

Sarah Cummins, Senior Lecturer in the School of Education and Childhood and Clare’s personal tutor said: “I could not be prouder of the journey Clare has taken and the remarkable educator she has become. From the outset, Clare stood out as a mature student whose dedication, commitment and professionalism were evident in everything she did. She approached her work with a level of focus and purpose that consistently inspired those around her—fellow students and tutors alike. I look forward to seeing the positive impact she will continue to make in the lives of the children she works with." 

Clare’s message for people who are considering applying to university later in life is to take the risk. 

“You think it’s just you doing it, but it isn’t. There are many other mature students in the same situation, who are going through the same things and have the same doubts. You’ll find your people,” Clare explained. “The truth is, we’re all just determined, hard-working people at different stages of life, all aiming for the same goal.” 

In her role as nursery manager, Clare gets actively involved in teaching and curriculum design. The skills and knowledge acquired at university have been instrumental in helping her thrive at work. Having developed a passion for research, Clare decided to stay on at Leeds Trinity to pursue a Masters in Childhood and Education, so she can apply evidence-based practice to her job going forward. 

Leeds Trinity University has a longstanding reputation for its teacher training provision, with 98% of graduates in employment or further study 15 months after graduating (HESA Graduate Outcomes, 2024). To find out more about studying Primary Education at Leeds Trinity, visit the University website.