A Special Educational Needs, Disability & Inclusive Practice (SENDIP) student from Solihull College & University Centre has been reflecting on her challenging but rewarding journey as she works towards achieving her degree.
Adele Adams left school at 16 after experiencing a challenging childhood. Determined to build a better future, she went on to selfteach through her ALevels before securing work as a shop assistant, later progressing into a role as an NHS receptionist.
Despite her achievements, Adele knew she had more to offer: “I decided to take advantage of the free parenting course from Solihull College & University Centre. It was so useful I then went on and did 4 of the free NCFE online courses funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority. It was at this point I had a conversation with the careers advisor who suggested I do the SENDIP degree.”
Completing a degree had always been a longheld ambition for Adele. With a daughter who lives with autism and ADHD, and firsthand experience of working within the NHS, she felt increasingly drawn to a career supporting children with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).
Following a discussion with the College’s careers advisor, Adele enrolled on the SENDIP degree. She quickly discovered that the structure of the course allowed her to balance her studies alongside her job and family life.
“It’s not easy starting a degree with one day a week in college, plus a work placement, alongside family life! But we make it work. The support I receive from the College is immense. My classmates are all very understanding and there is a wide range of ages, but we all have one common goal. To help each other get through it.”
Adele continues to work in the NHS while studying and is remaining openminded about her next steps. Drawing on her own experiences, she is passionate about making a difference: “I had many adverse childhood experiences, and I really believe I have so much to give. I’m finally gaining confidence in myself, my ability to learn and I want to be an advocate for youngsters with SEND. I’m passionate about changing the narrative, challenging the stigma, helping people overcome barriers. It’s never too late to learn and help people.”
