A MATURE student who used her own challenging personal experiences as part of academic research says she is determined to make a difference in her chosen career.

Natasha Wilkinson, who gained an early childhood education foundation degree at the University Centre Truro and Penwith, has a passion for supporting children with social and emotional needs and disabilities (SEND).

The single parent from St Austell became the first member of her family to study at university level, studying through pregnancy and while raising a family.

Natasha wants to enter the field of education psychology and is, at present, continuing her academic journey on a human behavioural studies degree course.

Her motivation to study education and her particular focus on SEND education was inspired by her own experiences as a mother navigating the support systems required for her children.

She channelled these challenges into her second year research, which explored inconsistencies in the education health care plan (EHCP) process.

Working with people in the SEND field and fellow parents, Natasha shed light on the difficulties many families face when applying for support.

She said: “The topic of SEND in education really interested me. A lot of people get bored by the policy side of it but I found it fascinating especially after having so many meetings for my own children. I feel like there’s a shortage of help and, if I have the background knowledge, I want to use that to help others.

“Now that I’ve studied for my degree, I can come at it from both a professional viewpoint and a parental viewpoint.”

Natasha’s commitment and creativity were recognised at the University Centre’s dissertation showcase, with the presentation of the Bianca Trew Award.

The trophy is given to one student per year who demonstrates the most creative approach to education.

She was nominated by the teaching team for her resilience, dedication and unique academic contributions to the field of SEND.

Karen Keast, deputy team lead for education, praised Natasha’s efforts, saying: “Over the duration of the course, Natasha was subject to multiple, major external circumstances which would ordinarily create hurdles and significant dilemmas to cease continued study.

“Through the University Centre’s support systems, she not only completed the full two years but also produced research that spotlighted key gaps in EHCP accessibility. Her work carried a unique and meaningful focus that brought depth to all her academic submissions.”

Now in her final year with the centre, Natasha is conducting dissertation research on the link between adverse childhood experiences and adult behavioural patterns.

Natasha’s message to others considering higher education is: “Anyone can do a degree if they put their mind to it. You need a lot of resilience, but if I can do it, singlehandedly raising children whilst being pregnant, anyone can!”

A spokesperson said: “Mature learners like Natasha in St Austell and surrounding areas can now find it even easier to access life-changing courses on their doorstep thanks to our adult education offer at the STEM and Health Skills Centre in Bodmin.”