A Second Chance at Education

Finding a Different Way Forward

Sometimes a learner doesn't need to give up on education. They need a different environment and another opportunity.

After a difficult secondary school experience, this learner found supportive relationships, greater happiness and the opportunity to start thinking positively about education, employment and the future.

“Sometimes they need another environment, another relationship and another chance.”

My Story

I'm 17 and British Pakistani.

People who know me would probably say I'm funny.

But secondary school was difficult.

I was bullied at different points during school, including Years 7, 10 and 11. It affected me more than people probably realised.

By Years 10 and 11 I was on a reduced timetable, and I didn't finish my GCSEs.

When I look back, I sometimes feel like the school system failed me.

I don't mean that everything about school was bad. It wasn't. But the difficult things had such a big impact that they changed my overall experience of education.

So when it was time to leave, I was excited.

I wanted a fresh start.

Coming to EMBS felt different.

College was more active, fun and relaxed. I felt like I was getting the help I had needed before.

There were members of staff I found really easy to speak to. I built good relationships with staff and felt supported.

Most importantly, I was happier.

I found happiness at EMBS.

I'm not ready to leave yet, but I already know that when I eventually do, it will be sad because I've enjoyed being here.

I'm also starting to think beyond college.

One of the things I want now is a job that I can do alongside my studies. So the support I need is changing. It's not only about helping me stay in education anymore.

I need help thinking about employment and the next stage of my life.

My experience has made me think differently about what education can be.

Sometimes a young person doesn't need people to decide that education isn't for them.

Sometimes they need another environment, another relationship and another chance.