Isobel-website

PAVING THE WAY TO A LEGAL CAREER: ISOBEL MUNN’S JOURNEY WITH STWLC SUPPORT

by Education Success StoriesNews

Growing up in the Leicestershire and Northamptonshire region, Isobel Munn always had a deep interest in the criminal justice system. Her academic journey began at Southfield School in Kettering, where she studied from the age of 11 through to 18. It was from there that she took her first step into higher education, enrolling at De Montfort University in Leicester.

“At 18, I attended De Montfort University in Leicester where I studied for a total of five years,” Isobel shares. “My undergraduate degree was Criminology and Criminal Justice which I completed between 2014 and 2017.”

Transitioning to Law

While her undergraduate studies laid a solid foundation in the theory of crime and justice, it was her postgraduate education that propelled Isobel towards her current role as a Criminal Defence Solicitor at Noble Solicitors. To make the leap from criminology graduate to qualified solicitor, Isobel pursued two key legal qualifications at De Montfort University: the Graduate Diploma in Law (GDL) and the Legal Practice Course (LPC).

“Between 2017 and 2018 I completed the Graduate Diploma in Law at De Montfort University,” she explains. “This was a conversion course that gave me the equivalent of a law degree. I completed the seven core modules required to achieve a law degree that would usually be split over three years.

“From 2018 to 2019, I then completed the Legal Practice Course, again at De Montfort University. This was the course that all Solicitors/Barristers were required to complete.”

The Courses That Made a Career

The importance of these postgraduate courses to Isobel’s career path cannot be overstated.

“Completion of both the Graduate Diploma in Law and Legal Practice Course were absolutely essential in being able to pursue employment as a Solicitor. I would not have been able to become a Solicitor without having completed the courses.”

Discovering STWLC

However, as with many postgraduate students, funding these essential studies was a significant challenge. That’s where The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) entered the picture.

“I cannot recall exactly,” Isobel says when asked how she first discovered the Charity. “I believe that there was something advertised at the University or it may have been suggested when I was seeking support to arrange funding for my postgraduate studies.”

A Positive Experience with the Charity

What began as a potential funding solution turned into a pivotal moment in Isobel’s professional development. Her experience with STWLC was not only practical, but also motivational.

“I found the experience helpful! When applying for the loan, it was helpful to be able to clarify, in my own mind, what my plan was for the future. Everyone was very friendly and appeared as though they really wanted to help me invest in my goals.”

The Impact of STWLC

Reflecting on the overall impact of the Charity, Isobel is unequivocal.

“100%. Without STWLC, I don’t know how I would have been able to fund my postgraduate studies which ultimately led me to become a Solicitor. STWLC gave me an opportunity to invest in myself and have confidence that I could pursue my dream job. It is a fantastic Charity aimed at supporting people become their best selves; without taking anything in return. I would have no hesitation in recommending STWLC to anyone.”

Invest in Your Future

Are you looking to invest in your future through postgraduate study but unsure how to fund it?

STWLC offers interest-free education loans of up to £10,000 to help individuals take the next step in their academic and professional journey – just like Isobel did.

Find out more and apply below.

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE EDUCATION LOAN
Lyni

EMPOWERED BY ART, FUELLED BY SUPPORT: HOW LYNI SARGENT BECAME AN ART PSYCHOTHERAPIST

by Education Success StoriesNews

Lyni Sargent’s path to becoming a self-employed Art Psychotherapist is a story of perseverance, late diagnoses, and the transformative power of art. Her academic and personal journey showcases how determination and the right support systems can lead to success – even when the odds seem stacked against you.

Early Life and Educational Challenges

“I grew up in Hinckley, Leicestershire and attended Battling Brook Primary School, Redmoor High School, and then completed my GCSEs at John Cleveland College. I failed all of my GCSEs as I had undiagnosed Dyslexia, Dyspraxia, and ADHD.”

It wasn’t until later in life that Lyni began to understand the challenges she faced throughout her education. At 28, she took a bold step and enrolled in a foundation degree in photography at Leicester College.

“Within a couple of weeks of starting, my struggles became apparent and I was referred for a dyslexia assessment. Shortly afterwards I was diagnosed with dyslexia and dyspraxia.”

Reclaiming Education and Gaining Confidence

Far from giving up, Lyni continued her studies, topping up her qualification to a BA (Hons) in Professional Studies in the Creative Industry – sponsored by De Montfort University. With her dyslexia diagnosis giving her clarity, she took on another challenge: re-sitting her GCSEs.

“Knowing that I had dyslexia made me feel empowered to retake my GCSEs and I gained a 7 in Maths, and a 9 in English. These were at North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College.”

Her postgraduate studies brought further revelations. “It was when I commenced my MA that I was screened for, and diagnosed with, ADHD.”

Discovering a Passion in Art Therapy

Lyni chose to pursue an MA in Art Psychotherapy Practice through the Northern Programme at Netherthorpe House, Sheffield, sponsored by Leeds Beckett.

“I always found school difficult, but bizarrely I found Art Therapy relatively easy. There was a lot of coursework to get through, lots of reading and assignments, but because it was something that I felt so passionate about it didn’t feel like hard work.”

Her course included practical elements that helped ground the theory.

“We also had to complete reflective practice which involved making artwork which enabled us to reflect on what we had read. We then discussed as a group our reflections. I think this action kept our stress levels lower which helped with our studies.”

A pivotal part of the course was her placement.

“I completed my placement at Maplewell Hall School in Loughborough which is a lovely school for High School aged children with Special Educational Needs.”

Paving the Way to Employment

Lyni is clear about the importance of her qualification in launching her career.

“Art Psychotherapy/Art Therapy is a protected title, so I would not be able to practice without the qualification. So yes, (the interest-free loan) made a very big, positive impact!”

Support from The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity

When it came to funding her postgraduate studies, Lyni sought out financial support.

“A peer had received a grant who lives in the North of England. I knew I wasn’t eligible as location was a criteria, but I did a Google search to see if there was anything similar for Leicestershire.”

That search led her to STWLC’s interest-free education loan.

“It was very straightforward. I often feel overwhelmed when it comes to following processes, but Sarah Hope (STWLC Operations Manager) was so kind, calm and professional that she made the whole process feel effortless.”

The Charity made a significant difference in helping Lyni manage the cost of studying.

“With me living in Hinckley and having to travel to Sheffield each week, I could not have afforded the course without the support of STWLC. Student Finance didn’t cover the fees, never mind all of the extra expenses that come with studying! I had to purchase so many books as they weren’t available in libraries, pay for fuel and a B&B each week, as well as manage on a reduce income as I was only able to work for two and a half days a week.”

Her message to others considering postgraduate study is simple:

“I would most definitely recommend STWLC’s interest-free education loan to anybody studying a postgraduate course!

Looking to Further Your Education Without the Financial Burden?

STWLC offers interest-free education loans to eligible students pursuing postgraduate study. If, like Lyni, you’re passionate about your future but need financial support to get there, STWLC could be the helping hand you need.

Click below to learn more about how to apply and take the next step towards your postgraduate journey – interest-free and full of possibility.

 

APPLY FOR AN INTEREST-FREE EDUCATION LOAN
Peter-Hale-1

FROM CLASSROOM TO COURTROOM: HOW AN INTEREST-FREE LOAN IGNITED PETER’S CAREER

by Education Success StoriesNews

The path to becoming a barrister is one of rigorous study, intensive training and significant financial commitment. Peter Hale’s journey exemplifies the dedication required to achieve this goal. Now a barrister at 12 King’s Bench Walk, Peter reflects on his academic and professional journey, as well as the vital role The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC) played in his success.

Roots and Education

Peter was born in London, before moving to the East Midlands at the age of 11. He attended school in Oakham and later studied at King Edward VII Sixth Form in Melton Mowbray. It was here that Peter’s aspirations began to take shape, ultimately leading him to pursue a Law degree at the University of Exeter.

Driven to deepen his understanding of law on an international scale, Peter continued his education by completing a Master’s in European Law at the University of Rennes in Brittany, France.

The Bar Professional Training Course

The next step on Peter’s journey was the Bar Professional Training Course (BPTC) at City Law School, University of London – a mandatory qualification for those aspiring to become barristers.

“The BPTC is essential for fulfilling the vocational stage of training,” Peter explains. “It provides a foundation in procedural law and equips aspiring barristers with skills in advocacy, negotiation, drafting, and research.”

Successfully completing the BPTC enabled Peter to progress to the pupillage stage of training and, ultimately, qualify as a barrister.

“Government support isn’t available for courses like the BPTC, so without STWLC’s financial assistance, it’s difficult to see how I could have achieved my career goals”

Finding Support Through STWLC

Like many postgraduate students, Peter faced significant financial challenges when it came to funding his studies. While exploring his options, he discovered STWLC, an organisation offering interest-free loans to residents of Leicestershire and Rutland pursuing educational or business opportunities.

“When I was researching ways to fund my postgraduate studies, I came across STWLC online,” Peter recalls. “It was one of the most accessible charities for residents of Leicestershire and Rutland.”

The Role of STWLC in Peter’s Journey

STWLC proved to be a lifeline for Peter, enabling him to pursue his ambitions without the financial barriers that might have otherwise held him back.

“Government support isn’t available for courses like the BPTC, so without STWLC’s financial assistance, it’s difficult to see how I could have achieved my career goals,” he says. “Beyond the funding, the charity provided encouragement and reassurance throughout my studies.”

Peter also appreciated the clarity and fairness of the Charity’s repayment terms.

“The application process was well-managed and the interest-free scheduled repayments meant that I have always known how much I would need to repay at which stages. I would highly recommend the Charity to anyone considering further education and needing financial support.”

A Career Realised

For Peter, the support of STWLC wasn’t just financial – it was foundational to his success. And for those following in his footsteps, his advice is clear: don’t hesitate to seek out the resources and support that can help make your goals a reality.

For more information about STWLC’s interest-free education loans, which are available up to £10,000, interest-free for nine years, please click here

Jo Rogers

PRESERVING THE PAST, BUILDING THE FUTURE: JOANNE ROGERS’ POSTGRADUATE JOURNEY

by Education Success StoriesNews

For Joanne Rogers, a passion for history and preservation has been a guiding light throughout her career. Now a Customer Service Assistant with Leicester Museums Service, part of Leicester City Council, Joanne has her sights set on a new horizon: working directly with historic collections. With the support of the Sir Thomas White Loan Charity (STWLC), she is pursuing a Graduate Diploma in Conservation Studies at the University of Lincoln, bringing her closer to fulfilling her professional aspirations.

A Love for History, Sparked Early

Joanne grew up in Kingswinford, a town in the West Midlands, where her interest in history began to take root. She attended Summerhill School before continuing her education at King Edward VI College in Stourbridge. In 2002, she moved to Leicester to study a BA in History of Art, Architecture, and Design at De Montfort University. This foundational degree ignited her passion for preserving the beauty and integrity of historical objects, setting the stage for her current studies.

Diving into Conservation Studies

Joanne’s postgraduate course at the University of Lincoln focuses on the complex science and ethics of conservation.

“The course covers the conservation and preservation of historic objects, learning the science behind the types of deterioration an object may undergo throughout its life and how to identify these issues,” Joanne explains.

“We’ve also learned how to halt further deterioration and consolidate the object for future display – whether it’s in a museum, part of a private collection, or in storage. My studies have taught me about the ethical considerations in handling objects and the importance of meticulous documentation of any treatments they undergo.”

Her enthusiasm for the subject is evident: “I’ve loved the course so far. I’m looking forward to working on a more complex object and learning how to conserve it.”

Balancing Education and a Museum Career

With 18 years of experience in museum operations, Joanne is well-versed in the sector. However, she hopes her new qualification will allow her to shift into a collections-based role. “I hope that when I finish my course, I will be able to put all that I have learned into practice, caring for museum objects.”

“I wouldn’t have been able to afford to join this course and develop my knowledge without the support of STWLC”

Discovering Support from STWLC

Pursuing postgraduate education while balancing professional and personal responsibilities isn’t always easy, but Joanne found invaluable support through STWLC.

She first heard about the Charity from a colleague and describes the experience as seamless and supportive. “It has been a wonderful process. Getting everything sorted has been straight-forward. I’m dyslexic and find forms quite challenging, but the correspondence with Sarah Hope and the Charity has been really helpful,” she shares.

Making the Impossible Possible

Joanne credits STWLC’s interest-free education loan for enabling her to pursue her studies. “I wouldn’t have been able to afford to join this course and develop my knowledge without the support of STWLC,” she says.

When asked if she would recommend the charity to others, her response is emphatic:

“Absolutely. The charity has played an important role in my journey, and I would definitely recommend it to others.”

Looking Ahead

As Joanne continues her studies, she looks forward to deepening her expertise and transitioning into a new chapter of her career. Her journey – from a childhood in Kingswinford to her current role in Leicester’s museums – shows the power of determination, passion, and support from organisations like STWLC.

If, like Joanne, you’re considering a return to university for a postgraduate course, click here to learn more about our education loans. They are completely interest-free for nine years, with no repayments required in the first three.

Victor Yu 01

VICTOR YU: FINDING A NEW PATH

by Education Success StoriesNews

One huge benefit of taking a postgraduate course is that it gives people an extra opportunity to re-shape a career direction if their undergraduate studies no longer remain their key interest and passion.

That proved to be the case for Victor Yu, who studied geography at undergraduate level before changing direction with an Epidemiology MSc at Imperial College London, which led to his current position as Senior Public Health Analyst at Hertfordshire County Council.

One of many recipients of STWLC’s interest-free education loan, Victor began by recounting his early memories of education.

“I grew up around Birmingham and undertook the majority of my secondary education in the region, plus including a brief stint in the US and Scotland for a couple of years,” Victor explained.

“For my undergraduate studies, I went to Loughborough University in the East Midlands, where I studied geography. I remained in Loughborough for a year after graduating to build up savings to fund my masters, whilst I continued training in athletics in the hopes of securing a sports scholarship, to secure even more additional funding. Unfortunately, I did not get this.”

During his search for funding opportunities, Victor first heard about The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity online.

“I looked at websites which provided information on postgraduate funding opportunities and found the Charity mentioned. Along with STWLC’s loan, I managed to secure grants from several other charities which also aided in my masters funding.”

With finances secured, Victor commenced a move away from his geography undergraduate studies to instead follow his interest in epidemiology.

“The course content was centred around principles of biostatistics, public health, and epidemiology, taught by world renowned researchers,” Victor continued.

“In the second semester, students were given the choice of more specialised modules, which involved more advanced content around infectious disease modelling, statistical methods like machine learning and advanced regression, and spatial modelling of diseases. The course cumulated in a several month dissertation project, where I worked with researchers on developing a large Bayesian statistical model examining global trends in childhood and adolescent height.

“The course was paramount in helping me transition to a quantitative field related to health,” Victor added.

“Without having done the course, it would’ve have been much more difficult for me to have entered the field and to reach where I am today as I came from a fairly unorthodox undergraduate background, in contrast to my peers who had done degrees like biomedical science, clinical degrees, pharmacy and mathematics.”

It’s clear that Victor’s postgraduate studies have been instrumental in shaping his desired career, and he concluded with a glowing review of the Charity’s interest-free education loan, which helped to make it possible.

“It sounds cliché, but I like the idiom that life is like a box of dominoes falling in to place. Being accepted for the loan has given me all of the experiences of my life since graduating and where I am now. In addition, with the loan being interest-free with a long repayment period, you appreciate the altruism the Trustees have in seeing their applicants succeed, over purely monetary gain.”

If you’re considering postgraduate education like Victor and need funds for tuition or living costs, please click here to read more about our interest-free education loans.

Gwilym Roberts 01

GWILYM ROBERTS: LIGHTS, CAMERA, ACTION!

by Education Success StoriesNews

Starting and developing a career in acting is no mean feat. It involves a combination of training, networking and perseverance, but when the love for it is there, it can be an incredibly special career to have.

Growing up in Melton Mowbray, Gwilym Roberts always had an interest in acting through his family, and decided to follow this through a less conventional education route.

“I decided against taking A Levels and did a BTEC course in Musical Theatre at Brooksby Melton College,” Gwilym began.

“Then, I went to the University of Cumbria to continue this further. Whilst there, I realised my love was for just acting, so decided to do a Masters in Acting at Guilford School of Acting.”

It was at this point in time when Gwilym discovered The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity – and specifically, the interest-free education loans available through the Charity.

“We were looking for loans, as I couldn’t afford to do my Masters without additional funding, and my Mum found STWLC. After some research about the Charity, we realised this was a perfect fit,” Gwilym reflected.

One of the UK’s leading accredited drama schools, the Guildford School of Acting provides dedicated training within a purpose-built environment on the University of Surrey campus, focusing on practical actor training through a series of workshops and rehearsals.

“The course was amazing,” Gwilym continued.  

“I was in classes from 9am till 6pm most days, and it was very hands-on and holistic in its approach. I was excited for most classes, and there was a real sense of collaboration.

“It’s helped me get an agent, and furthered my study as an actor. I’ve since appeared in some Shakespeare shows, and am doing so again, and couldn’t have done that without my Masters.”

“Even now, the repayments are just a monthly expense that I don’t worry about. I would, and have, recommended the Charity to many other people, and will continue to do so.”

Gwilym Roberts

Now a Self-Employed Actor, Gwilym concluded with some kind words about his experience with STWLC and the benefits of receiving an interest-free loan.

“I couldn’t have done my Masters without additional funding, and having the security of knowing I didn’t need to start repayments for three years and it was interest-free made me not worry about it whilst studying. Even now, the repayments are just a monthly expense that I don’t worry about. I would, and have, recommended the Charity to many other people, and will continue to do so.”

If, like Gwilym, you are considering a postgraduate course and require funds for tuition or living costs, please click here for more information about our interest-free education loans, available up to £10,000.

Maria Grad

MARIA TERRY: PROVOKING CONVERSATION AND CHANGE

by Education Success Stories

‘Find a job you love, and you will never have to work a day in your life,’ – a famous phrase which seems appropriate as we dive into Maria Terry’s story.

Born in Ealing, London, before moving with her parents and sister to Morocco until secondary school age, Maria moved back to the UK and settled in the East Midlands, later studying a BA at the University of York and most recently a Masters in Performance Design at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School – thanks in part to The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity’s support.

“I have always been a ‘geeky art kid’ – ever since school,” Maria began.

“Hiding in the art classrooms and painting instead of going outside and playing – I’m sure many other art kids can relate! I started off as a portrait artist, before quickly realising I liked painting huge installations and big portraits. It was my art teacher who encouraged me to look at scenic painting and visual effects for theatre, film and TV and I’ve never looked back since.”

Having found out about STWLC through Turn2Us.org.uk, and then being successful in her application for the Charity’s interest-free education loan, Maria commenced an MA in Performance Design at Bristol Old Vic Theatre School.

“During this time, I was awarded the John Elvery prize to recognise Excellence in Stage Design in my work towards creative collaboration, inclusion and sustainability. I completed my Masters slap-bang in the middle of the pandemic, so it was the biggest challenge of my career to date, but taught me the resilience and self-belief I carry with me today to continue on the often challenging – but fulfilling – road as an artist.

“I learnt a huge variety of skills such as model making, Computer Aided Design software, textiles, costume drawing, prop making, basic carpentry, lighting design, hair, make up, technical drawings, working in groups, art directing, collaboration, working resourcefully to tight deadlines and lots more.”

Furthermore, in 2021 Maria was shortlisted for the coveted emerging stage design ‘Linbury Prize’ for her integrated design approach towards sustainability, and is now working towards becoming a Carbon Literacy trainer for the East Midlands, accredited and supported by the Society of British Theatre Designers.

“Being able to access and pay for my MA degree, with the help of the STWLC, has had an immeasurable effect on my confidence, contacts and knowledge,” Maria continued.

“The journey post graduation has taken me to every corner of the UK, working on TV sets, giant commercial workshops or backstage on national tours. I have learnt from the many inspiring and skilled people along the way, all dedicated to their craft, and I fit in well with this multi-skilled, hard-working, highly adaptable, aspirational community and it’s an honour to work with the best of their craft.

“I went on to form and become part of East Midlands based collective ‘B Team’, who specialise in creating entertaining and educational theatre about the environment that provokes conversation and change.

“I am a regular guest speaker for Arts students at the University of Derby, Nottingham Trent University, London College of Fashion and for schools, youth theatres and community groups. I am passionate about passing on skills and knowledge to the next generation of budding creatives as each path is so different, and often not linear, and struggle is all part of the lifelong process of discovering your identity as an artist.”

Looking back on her journey to becoming a Performance Designer and Design & Technology Technician through Maria Terry Design, Maria concluded with a word on the impact that STWLC has had along the way.

“STWLC has played a vital role in shaping my career. The fact the loan was interest-free for 3 years before starting monthly repayments allowed me to find good permanent employment before paying it back. I now own a house, have a job I enjoy and have enough monthly income to rent a studio of my own, which has helped my practise to find its next gear. I am excited for the future – thank you STWLC!”

To find out more about Maria Terry Design, please visit www.mariaterrydesign.co.uk or check out @mariaterrydesign on Instagram.

For more information about our interest-free education loans, which are available up to £10,000 to support with post-graduate tuition or living costs, please click here

Leona MI 01

LEONA MAY IRWIN: THE OXFORD EXPERIENCE

by Education Success Stories

Studying at the University of Oxford is a dream for many people. It’s one of the oldest and most renowned universities in the world, offering a unique and transformative educational experience which shapes students into critical thinkers, independent learners and future leaders in their respective fields.

For Leona May Irwin, who grew up in Coventry and achieved a First-Class Medical Physiology BSc at the University of Leicester, that dream came true when she received an interest-free education loan from STWLC in order to take a Clinical Embryology MSc at the world-famous university.

“I knew I wanted to pursue a Master’s Degree and specialise within Reproductive Healthcare and Biology,” Leona began.

“During my post-graduate course at the University of Oxford, the course included an intensive array of scientific lectures and practical experiments, alongside opportunities to shadow embryologists and andrologists in real-time. I have no doubt the course shaped me into the scientific researcher I am today. The ability to meet world-renowned researchers, of which I read about and admired in journals before attending, was astounding.”

You are also never prepared for the unique social calendar an Oxford student has!

Leona May Irwin

Known for its incredible standards and demands, studying in Oxford provided a test like no other.

“No-one can really prepare you for the University of Oxford, as it is a parallel life to any academic experience I have ever entailed,” she continued.

“There were moments of tears, stress and despair but I managed to make some amazing memories with friendships and connections with scientists worldwide, of which I never knew were possible. You are also never prepared for the unique social calendar an Oxford student has!”

“Without STWLC, I likely wouldn’t be where I am today, let alone be able to say I am a University of Oxford Alumni”

Leona May Irwin

When searching for funding to cover the Master’s fees, Leona discovered The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity through an internet search.

“The application and interview process were so efficient and highly informative at every stage,” Leona reflected when speaking about the Charity.

“Without STWLC, I likely wouldn’t be where I am today, let alone be able to say I am a University of Oxford Alumni. I am eternally grateful for the opportunity and accomplishments it has provided, and those that are yet to come.”

Currently a studentship PhD candidate at the University of Leicester, Leona concluded with an overview of the present and an outlook on the future: “My Master’s degree from the University of Oxford has hugely influenced where I am now,” she added.

“Not only was the academic training I received impeccable, my course leaders and supervisors at Oxford also went the extra mile to prepare me for the professional world. I was able to attend international conferences such as ESHRE 2022, in Milan, Italy, where I met likeminded scientists from all over the world. This enabled me to make international connections of which I never would have without the University of Oxford, preparing me for my future career.”

If, like Leona, you need funding in order to cover costs of postgraduate education, please click here to learn more about our interest-free education loans.

Ayesha Khan 01

AYESHA KHAN: EXPLORING AND EDUCATING

by Education Success Stories

Taking a postgraduate course is often about much more than the qualification itself, with many courses opening doors to new experiences, places and cultures which help to form and shape careers.

Ayesha Khan is a wonderful example of this. Having grown up in Leicester and obtained a BA from the University of Bradford, Ayesha went on to pursue an MA in English Language Teaching with De Montfort University – thanks in part to an interest-free education loan from The Sir Thomas White Loan Charity.

“Following graduation, I worked part-time at Tesco while figuring out my next steps. It was during this time that I learned about the MA course, which aligned perfectly with my desire to travel,” Ayesha began.

“I saw it as an opportunity to pursue my MA and subsequently embark on a journey as an English teacher. And that’s exactly what I did. Over the course of seven years, I taught primary school children in the Middle East, spending three years in Kuwait and four in Qatar. The MA not only provided me with valuable knowledge, but also allowed me to explore new places and cultures.”

The popular English Language Teaching course at De Montfort University helps to broaden an understanding of the challenges faced by English language teachers and learners worldwide, featuring a variety of different modules.

“My personal favourite was phonetics and phonology, where we delved into the intricacies of sound production and the anatomy of speech,” Ayesha continued.

“Additionally, we explored topics such as psycholinguistics, sociolinguistics, teaching productive and receptive skills, and engaged in microteaching sessions. For my dissertation, I focused on sociolinguistics, investigating language attitudes among EFL (English as a Foreign Language) learners. Specifically, I explored how learners perceive different accents and whether these perceptions influence English language instruction methodologies.”

“The MA not only provided me with valuable knowledge, but also allowed me to explore new places and cultures.”

Ayesha Khan

Remembering back to when her plans to study a postgraduate course began, Ayesha moved on to mention the role STWLC played along the way – starting with the process of applying in 2016.

“I was considering how I would finance my MA studies because at the time I wanted to pursue it, there were no student loans available for postgraduate students. Fortunately, someone at the university informed me about the charity, and I decided to apply. Thankfully, my application was successful!”

“I remember having an interview with a panel of Trustees,” Ayesha reflected.

“Though it was initially daunting, I found the experience enjoyable. Everyone I encountered at the charity was incredibly nice, and the application process was straightforward. The repayment terms were also favourable – a nine-year loan with no repayments for the first three years, followed by six years with no interest. Whenever I mention this loan to people nowadays, they’re often surprised to learn about the existence of such a charity and its support for students and entrepreneurs.”

“I am deeply grateful to STWLC because their assistance enabled me to travel the world and discover my passion for teaching and exploring new cultures.”

Ayesha Khan

Having completed her MA and enjoyed the incredible experience of travelling and teaching in the Middle East, last year Ayesha made the decision to return home and undergo training to become a primary school teacher in the UK.

“The passion instilled in me by my MA led me to rediscover my love for teaching children, motivating my decision to return and pursue retraining,” Ayesha concluded.

“STWLC has played a crucial role in my journey. Without their support, I wouldn’t have been able to pursue my MA, nor would I have had the opportunity to work abroad. I am deeply grateful to STWLC because their assistance enabled me to travel the world and discover my passion for teaching and exploring new cultures.”

To find out more about our interest-free education loans, which are available up to the value of £10,000 to cover living and tuition costs, please click here