From Nervous Beginnings to Thriving in College

Maddie was very nervous coming to a new environment as an autistic person, but since starting college last September she can’t believe how far she’s come and how much her life has changed!

Worried about making friends and being in unfamiliar spaces, it was initially hard for her, but less that a year later and Maddie is thriving on her hairdressing course and has even been brave enough to share her story to inspire others who are thinking of choosing college as their next step.

“If you really want to, you can do it,” she said. “You’ve just got to put your mind to it!”

“When I first came here, I thought ‘I can’t do it’, and I just wanted to go,” said Maddie. “But the support here has been overwhelmingly positive and I’ve never been happier in education,” She added.

The Inclusion Mentors at college are here to support students with additional learning needs. They can help them develop strategies for independent learning and achieve their academic goals.

“My inclusion mentor here has really helped me come far,” said Maddie. “I'm doing something I love and I've always got support. I’ve never been happier.”

Louise Flanagan, Maddie’s Inclusion Mentor, said: "When I first met Maddie during her transition visit, she was understandably anxious about starting college after a challenging experience in secondary school. Through tailored support, self-awareness, and determination, she has developed the confidence and independence to thrive. Creating and sharing this video is a powerful reflection of her resilience and growth. We are incredibly proud of all she has achieved."

To find out more about the support and help available to students with additional learning needs when transitioning from school to college visit: https://www.gllm.ac.uk/student-hub/additional-learning-needs-aln

Visit our Instagram page to watch Maddie talking about her college journey: