Support my dream- Send me to Norland

Hi, my name is Darcy and I’m trying to raise money so that I can attend University. At twelve years old, I was hospitalised for five months, and because of an undiagnosed brain condition. I lost all memories of my childhood. During this time I underwent extensive treatment. To this day at 18, I’m still unable to remember anything prior to the age of 13. I was unable to recognise my parents. In my confused state, I believed them to be doctors rather than the caring figures who had been with me throughout my life. At my worst, I only had one working limb and had lost the power of speech. The confines of the hospital environment led me to become institutionalised, creating a fear of the world beyond those walls. I missed a whole academic year of schooling. However, in three years, I re-learnt to walk, talk, understand social norms and developed academic skills. Despite the odds stacked against me, I am currently completing my A-levels. Unfortunately, this event has had a lasting impact on my family’s wellbeing.

When relearning everything, I became fascinated by childhood. The world of children, with its inherent fun and boundless imagination, captivated me. This experience ignited a passion within me to contribute positively to the lives of children and to lay the strongest possible foundations for their futures.

Having experienced life from various perspectives: being mute, immobile, a toddler, a playful child and now a young adult, I possess a unique understanding of cognitive and emotional development. It is this distinctive insight that informs my approach when working with children, motivating my desire to attend Norland College and pursue a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care. I am driven by the belief that my firsthand understanding of childhood challenges, coupled with formal education in this field, will equip me to make a lasting and positive impact on the lives of the next generation. This is why I am desperate to have the opportunity to attend Norland College and study for a BA (Hons) in Early Childhood Education and Care. I have been offered a place. Unfortunately, the government will not provide me with a full student loan for tuition fees, accommodation and living expenses. Tuition fees are 16K per annum. The government will only loan 6K per year to support this cost. Over three years, this leaves 30K to find, in addition to living expenses, the cost of the uniform (£1000) and other necessities.

In facing my own challenges, I've realised the power of resilience and empathy, fueling my determination to support vulnerable children and their families. My aim at Norland College is not just to pursue a degree but to acquire the skills and knowledge to make a difference in the lives of those facing challenges. I envision using my education to develop inclusive programs that address not only the educational but also the emotional and social needs of all children regardless of their background, while empowering families with the support and resources they need to create nurturing environments. Your support helps bridge the gap between my aspirations and the ability to act as a champion for children who deserve every opportunity to thrive, regardless of their circumstances.

Your support for this opportunity means the world to me, as it represents not just a personal aspiration but a commitment to fostering the well-being and development of all children.

Thank you for looking at my page and considering support.