“Having enrolled onto a Paramedic Science degree, I was hopeful of obtaining a government loan to complete my studies. Unfortunately I was not successful. My sisters and I came to England from Uganda in 2007, when my mum was already a student in Leicester. By the time my mum completed her course, we had already been settled in this country for more than half of our lives; we were in full-time education and it was difficult to disrupt us. Mum therefore decided to stay, with the hope of getting our residency status finalised. Unfortunately this is still ongoing, so I couldn’t access any student finance.
I managed to raise some of the funds needed, but found myself struggling to complete payment of my course fees. I began searching for charities who would be able to help me. Alderman Newton’s Educational Foundation was recommended by a family friend. I applied at a time when I had almost lost hope of pursuing my studies. When I received the grant acceptance letter, I was overjoyed. I was finally able to study something that has always been my passion and interest.

The Foundation was able to support my 2nd and 3rd year too, which was a great relief for myself and my family.
My course is a fast paced hands on course that I have thoroughly enjoyed. This course will give me a bright future with my dream career. Placement duties have been an eye opener, confirming the role that I would love to play for the rest of my life.

Working during the pandemic was life changing. Each case has been treated with utmost caution and care. I have learnt to be extra vigilant when treating patients who are symptomatic.

I am now doing my final placement with West Midlands Ambulance, after which I hope to graduate. It is my hope to be appointed as a Paramedic with East Midlands Ambulance Service.”