“I didn’t do very well in my A Levels and told myself I’d never go back into education,” she says. “But I’d always dreamed of working in veterinary, so when I found out about the Access to Higher Education course at University Centre Reaseheath, I decided to give it a try.”
The decision changed everything. “It was really scary at first,” Ellie admits. “I hated my previous college experience and was worried it would be the same. But my classmates were lovely, the teachers were so supportive, and I settled in quickly, especially because one of the Access lecturers also taught vet nursing.”
Through the programme Ellie discovered her strengths as a learner. “We had so many different types of assessments,” she says. “It helped me figure out how I worked best, how to plan assignments, and how to stay organised. It also gave me a great foundation in anatomy and animal welfare before I started the degree.”
That preparation paid off. “Reaseheath had so many resources for vet nursing students, and the campus is beautiful,” she says. “I already knew the staff and how to get around, which made it feel comforting and familiar – plus, I loved the zoo and the animal handling opportunities.”
Her first term, though, didn’t go to plan. “I missed induction because I had COVID and was still struggling with long-term symptoms,” she explains. “I didn’t know anyone, and I even missed half of my first day because I was unwell. But my teachers were so kind, and the girls I shared accommodation with were amazing, they made it feel like I’d never missed a thing.”
As she found her footing, Ellie leaned on her tutors and friends. “Steph Jackson, Rosie Barrow and Karen Bagnall – I would not be here without them,” she says.
“They were the kindest, most patient, and friendly lecturers. The wellbeing team was also brilliant and offered so much support.”
Balancing study, unpaid placements, and part-time work was hard. “It was extremely difficult to manage everything,” she says. “I found it tough to take care of myself at times, but I was supported by my tutors, parents, and fiancé, which made a huge difference.”
Ellie’s persistence paid off in more ways than one. “I struggled a lot throughout my degree,” she says.
“I was diagnosed with autism and dyslexia in my final two years, which suddenly made a lot of sense, and I was given brilliant support for that. I’m proud that I managed to work things out and finish with a First-Class Honours degree.”
Her dissertation, another point of pride, reflected her growing confidence as a researcher. “I put a lot of time into it, and I really believe my results can help shape future research and guide change within veterinary practice,” she says.
Now working in practice, Ellie is already thinking ahead. “I’d love to do a Master’s within five years and if Reaseheath offered one, I’d definitely consider it,” she says.
“I’d also love to become an educator one day. My lecturers were so supportive and truly made me believe in myself, I’d love to give that same feeling to others.”
And that empathy defines her work today. “I use my knowledge to enhance patient welfare and experience,” Ellie says. “I strongly advocate for my patients’ rights and comfort. That’s the part of the job that means the most to me.”
For anyone considering the Access to Higher Education route, Ellie offers simple advice: “Access to Higher Education is exactly what you make it. You can use it to build connections, try different things, and figure out where you want to go next. It really gave me a rounded experience and helped me find my way.”
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