For the Winsford graduate receiving her qualification is the result of years of persistence, personal growth, and the unwavering support of her Reaseheath community.

The 21-year-old from Winsford has shown quiet determination, self-belief, and courage throughout her journey – overcoming challenges with Type 1 Diabetes and autism to find her voice, her confidence, and her calling in the canine world.

Amelia’s story with Reaseheath began several years earlier, when she joined the Level 3 Animal Management course at college.

“I loved the campus and felt there was always someone available to help and answer questions,” she recalls. “I didn’t really know what I wanted to do next, but when I came to the university open day, the talks were so informative, and the tutors explained the balance between teaching hours and time with the animals. I even took part in a taster lecture – and from that moment, Reaseheath just felt right.”

The decision to stay on for higher education was made easier by the atmosphere.

“It never feels busy because there’s so much space, but there’s always something happening if you want to get involved. It feels more like a community than an education setting, and there’s always someone to help if you need it.”

That sense of support became a cornerstone of Amelia’s journey. Diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes shortly before starting college, she had to adapt to fluctuating blood sugars and periods of remote learning. Returning to campus was difficult.

“As a student with autism, I found it hard to communicate when I was struggling,” she says. “I worried people would judge me if I sent an email or Teams message, so sometimes I just didn’t. The support team worked with me to overcome that. They helped me build confidence to make a phone call, to send an email for help or to ask questions, and they always responded quickly, which meant I could move on with my day knowing everything would be okay.”

Early on, public speaking felt impossible.

“I remember receiving my first presentation assignment and panicking so much I had to leave the room,” Amelia admits. “A tutor found me sitting on the corridor floor, calmed me down, and took me to the support room. A few days later, it was written into my reasonable adjustment plan that I could pre-record my voice and present to a smaller group. That was a massive relief. I was so proud last year when I finally stood and gave my presentation verbally.”

Through patience, structure, and the backing of Reaseheath’s support and teaching teams, Amelia learned to thrive.

“I’ve learnt strategies to help me stay calm, focused, and organised. I’m no longer afraid to say ‘I don’t understand’ or to ask for help. Before, I’d have wasted time worrying and ended up with a muddle of ideas. Now, I can approach a lecturer and say, ‘Can you take a look over this for me, please?’ That confidence has changed everything.”

Amelia’s proudest moments have come through the hands-on side of her course.