AHE student receives prestigious Agored Cymru Special Award
07/05/2024
We are thrilled that Bridgend College alumnus Natalie May has been awarded the Agored Cymru ‘Special Award’ 2024.
Each year, colleges are able to nominate students for the Agored Cymru Access to Higher Education (AHE) ‘Learner of the Year’ award in two categories: Outstanding Academic Achievement and Outstanding Commitment to Study.
On occasion, Agored Cymru will also present their Special Award to recognise a student who has gone above and beyond during their studies.
Natalie was one such student. Having studied the Access to Higher Education Health Care Diploma Level 3 at the College in between 2022–23, she successfully achieved a 45 straight Distinction profile throughout the duration of the course alongside being a staunch advocate for mental health.
From the moment she embarked on the diploma, Natalie’s passion for studying and her determination to challenge the stigma associated with mental health was clear. Natalie has always supported the notion that health diagnoses should not define an individual but allow people to empathise with others, helping to break down barriers whilst fostering a culture of acceptance and understanding.
“Natalie has been a positive role model both as a student and now as a healthcare professional, a student mental health nurse. She demonstrated incredible insight into psychology and human behaviour as well as health care practices during her studies. Natalie always showed sheer determination, motivation as well as immense resilience both in College and in her personal life, and we can’t think of anyone more deserving of this award than her.”
Claire Leakey, Lecturer in Care and Childhood Studies at Bridgend College
A celebration was held between the College and Agored Cymru at the College’s Queen Road Campus, where Natalie accepted her award in the company of her proud family and tutors. The award is not only an acknowledgement of the incredible effort and achievement attained by Natalie, but also an affirmation of the positive impact that Access to Higher Education courses can have in changing the trajectory of people’s lives.
“Agored Cymru is very proud of its long and positive relationship with Bridgend College and we continue to be impressed by its Access to Higher Education (AHE) team who deliver our Diplomas with expertise, innovation and the highest levels of professionalism.
Often, AHE learners have overcome major challenges in their life to gain qualifications and fulfil their aspirations of going onto higher education. The Agored Cymru Special Award was presented to Natalie May in recognition of her being an impressive individual who not only completed her Diploma but achieved way beyond standard expectations, all while overcoming significant personal challenges.
Agored Cymru is delighted to join Bridgend College, family and friends to acknowledge, reward and celebrate an inspirational learner for her commitment to learning. Congratulations Natalie!”
Jo Creeden, Deputy CEO and Responsible Officer for Agored Cymru
If you are looking to get back into studying after taking a break, or are keen to pursue a degree but don’t have the necessary qualifications, explore our Access to Higher Education courses in health and social care.
