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Returning to learning: Supporting Mature Students at NTU Mansfield

At NTU Mansfield, supporting learners at every stage of life is central to what we do. Cheryl Hibbard and Vicky Wright, both studying the Foundation Degree in Education, are two mature students whose experiences reflect the determination and commitment often seen among those returning to study later in life.

Published: 27 March 2026
Cheryl and Vicky promoting Little Miracles at a community event

Balancing life and study

Returning to learning after time away can feel daunting. For many mature students, study must fit alongside work, volunteering, caring responsibilities and family life, and the idea of stepping back into a classroom can feel overwhelming. But with the right support, returning to study can be a positive and rewarding experience.

Alongside their studies, Cheryl and Vicky are closely involved with Little Miracles, Nottinghamshire, a multi–award-winning charity supporting families of children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) and life-limiting conditions from birth to age 25. Their story highlights how returning to education can build on the skills and experience developed through life and work.

Supporting families at Little Miracles

Cheryl and Vicky first connected with Little Miracles as parents seeking inclusive activities and peer support for their families. Cheryl’s son was born with a serious congenital heart condition, autism and complex needs, while Vicky’s son is autistic with additional needs. Like many parents of children with SEND, they found that mainstream activities often did not meet their children’s needs.

Through Little Miracles, they accessed inclusive opportunities such as swimming, soft play, forest walks, pantomimes and community events. Crucially, they also found a network of families who understood the realities of navigating education, health services and everyday challenges.

Over time, Cheryl and Vicky took on formal roles within the charity. Cheryl helped establish the Nottinghamshire branch as a volunteer and now works part time as Branch Coordinator, while Vicky works as a Bank Childcare Practitioner and volunteers weekly as a Teaching Assistant at a local primary school. Together, their work supports inclusive play, childcare provision and community engagement for families across the county.

Returning to education

Cheryl and Vicky hadn’t initially planned to progress to higher education. But after attending an NTU Mansfield open event, they discovered the Foundation Degree in Education along with flexible study routes and tailored support for mature students.

Finding a university-level course that fits around family responsibilities, work and other commitments is often key for those considering a career change. Cheryl had not studied formally since leaving school, while Vicky had completed a Supporting Teaching and Learning qualification at West Nottinghamshire College.

NTU offers a range of dedicated services to help mature students transition back into learning. The Learning and Teaching Team provides academic skills support in areas including writing, referencing, study skills, research, maths and statistics, with one-to-one appointments available for personalised guidance.

Students can also access support from Mature Student Ambassadors, who offer practical advice on balancing study with other responsibilities and opportunities to connect with others returning to education. Through welcome events and activities throughout the year, these ambassadors help students settle in, build confidence and feel part of the wider university community.

Learning that fits around real life

Now progressing successfully through their foundation degree, Cheryl and Vicky are studying modules focused on inclusive practice, child development, and the wider social and cultural contexts of education. Their tutors highlight how their experience as parents and practitioners enriches classroom learning, while academic study strengthens their work in schools and communities.

Alongside her role at Little Miracles, Cheryl also supports Dance Warriors, an inclusive dance group for young people with learning disabilities, and runs a small craft business. Being a student has not meant putting life on hold – instead, study has enhanced everything else she does.

Through their studies and ongoing work with Little Miracles, Cheryl and Vicky are transforming their first-hand experience into informed practice, helping to strengthen inclusive provision now and shape more equitable support for children and families in the future.

Reflecting on what motivates them, they said:

It comes from a determination to improve outcomes for children – both our own and others who are too often overlooked.

Their story is a powerful reminder that it’s never too late to return to education. With flexible study options, specialist support and a strong sense of community, taking that step can open doors you may not have thought possible. If you’re considering returning to learning, Cheryl and Vicky’s message is simple: it may feel daunting, but with the right support, you can do it.

Find out more about the courses we deliver at NTU Mansfield.

To volunteer with Little Miracles and support families of children with additional needs, visit littlemiraclescharity.org.uk.

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