GCSE Student Stories: Heidi Terrett | International GCSE Biology Review

At 41 years old with two children and a full-time job as a teaching assistant, Heidi embarked on her learning journey with ICS Learn to achieve an International GCSE in Biology.

Whilst working in my job as a teaching assistant I realised that I was capable of so much more and decided that I wanted to qualify as a teacher. However, my current Science grade did not reach the entry requirements for a PGCE. Having last sat GCSEs in 1996 the subject area was now completely new to me.

I decided to try online learning because I felt it would be easier to work around my other commitments and meant that I didn’t have to find childcare whilst I attended college, so online learning certainly appealed to me for these reasons.

I did have my reservations though. I was worried about how I would remain motivated and cope with learning independently. I also had low expectations of the support I would receive, expecting to be left to just get on with it. I was so wrong!

I started the course in September and initially went it alone, but I soon realised that I wasn’t getting through the content as quickly as I thought and began to feel a bit overwhelmed.

At this point, I contacted my tutor who had already offered her support at the beginning of the course. She was amazing, she set up learning targets, advised me on methods of learning, and provided me with useful links and printable revision cards.

From then I was in constant contact, she really helped to keep me focused and on track. She was able to give me feedback and explain anything I didn’t understand.

Despite my initial reservations, I found my online learning experience to be really positive. ICS Learn provided a professional service and I always felt supported and well-informed.

I would say to anyone thinking about furthering their education, to do it! Follow your dreams whatever your age as you’ll never know what you can achieve until you try.

After receiving my results this summer I’m so pleased to say that my hard work has paid off. I achieved above the minimum grade required and I am now able to apply for a PGCE this year.

I’m really excited about moving on to the next chapter and progressing with my career.

Inspired by Heidi's story? Take control of your future like she did and study a GCSE or International GCSE qualification with us 100% online.