Kelly Doran has overcome many difficulties to thrive in education and earn a place on the BSc Adult Nursing at the University of Salford.

Her hard work and dedication in the face of adversity saw her nominated for the Keith Fletcher Access to HE Memorial Prize 2021-22 in the category of Outstanding Commitment to Study.

The supporting statement from Bury College regarding her nomination said: “Kelly began her journey with Bury College studying Level 1 Functional Skills and progressed onto GCSE English and Maths with the sole purpose of progressing onto Access to HE. Kelly began Access to HE in September 2021 and showed real promise. However, Kelly very sadly lost her long-term partner and father to her two young children.”

“Kelly found herself in a position where she was forced to arrange a funeral, and look after her young, grieving children whilst trying to complete her studies. As a college, we supported Kelly through her difficulties, and we advised her that she was able to leave the course and join us next academic year. However, against all odds, Kelly continued and completed the course. Furthermore, Kelly continued her additional GCSE maths; a testament to her dedication to education and to enter into higher education. Kelly completed Access to HE at Bury College with 118 UCAS points and has secured a place to study BSc Adult Nursing at the University of Salford. Her attitude and commitment to her studies have inspired the Access team and we are so proud of her.”

Kelly said: “I really enjoyed the course. My tutors were a massive help to me, supporting me when I needed it the most.”

Her time at Bury College isn’t quite over yet. The first year of her Nursing Degree is being taught at Bury College University Centre and she is delighted to be back studying on campus, further supporting her long-term career goal.