Aisha

“I genuinely don’t think I would have had the confidence to take that first step without New City College and Kate’s encouragement.”

At 32, Aisha took a step that would change her future when she enrolled on a GCSE English course at New City College’s Tower Hamlets Campus. Now, having graduated with First Class Honours in Primary Education and achieved Qualified Teacher Status (QTS), she is studying for a Master’s degree in Special Educational Needs at the University of East London.

Aisha’s journey began with a desire to build her confidence and take her education further. During her GCSE English course, she found a teacher who helped her recognise her own potential – and who she credits with changing the course of her life.

Aisha said: “When I started the course, I don’t think I had anywhere near the confidence in myself that I have now. But my teacher Kate Hall saw something in me and encouraged me, and made me feel that I was capable of more than I thought I was.”

That encouragement stayed with Aisha long after she completed her English studies. The following year, she returned to study GCSE Maths and Biology, before progressing to a degree in Primary Education and embarking on a career path in teaching.

Reflecting on how far she has come, Aisha said: “Looking back at where I started, it feels quite incredible, and I genuinely don’t think I would have had the confidence to take that first step without New City College and Kate’s encouragement.”

Aisha wanted to share her story to thank Kate for making such a lasting difference and to highlight the powerful impact teachers can have on their students’ lives.

She also hopes her experience will inspire others who may doubt their own abilities or feel uncertain about returning to education.

“I want other potential students to know that even if they think they can’t do something, with the support and encouragement from college teachers, you can!”

“My time at Tower Hamlets Campus literally changed my life – I would never have thought I would be graduating with a First Class Honours degree a few years after starting my GCSE English course!

“I’m now looking forward to a career as a teacher and hoping I can inspire my students in the same way Kate did for me.”

Aisha’s achievements show how taking that first step, with the right support behind you, can open the door to a whole new future.