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Bernice, aged 18, Swindon

“My daughter is 15 months now, and I really wanted to go to college - but I didn't know how because I had a baby.

"Care to Learn made it possible for me to study at New College, Swindon, where I am pursuing a career in Health and Social Care, and hope to get into psychiatric nursing next year.

"I cannot even begin to express my joy and thanks to Care to Learn because this is a dream come true.

"Without the support I would have been at home doing nothing, and by now all hope of me getting into college would have vanished.

"My daughter has really grown a lot through mixing with other children. I am glad that Care to Learn is assisting young mothers like me, and encouraging us to go back to college and get a better education.

"This has changed my life completely, and I can now see a positive future.”

Julie, aged 18, Peterborough

“I had 11 GCSEs before I had my baby, but I still wanted to carry on with my education. I found it hard being a young mum but doing a course gave me the confidence to believe in myself. 

"Through the Care to Learn adviser, I have been able to place Ben in nursery without having to worry. I now have an NVQ Level 1 and I am currently doing my A-levels at college. 

"Being a mum is a lot easier now because I am doing something for myself, which will benefit both me and my son.”

Rhiann, aged 18, Swindon

“I was 17 when I had my little girl. I had always planned to go to college to continue my education but never thought it would be possible due to the cost of childcare.

"My health visitor gave me a leaflet about Care to Learn; it explained how it helped young mums return to education.

"I decided if I was going to get help with childcare there was nothing stopping me going to college. I am now ready to leave college after studying accounting, maths, SAGE and English.

"Without Care to Learn I would not have the qualifications I have gained, my daughter Isabel would not have met the friends she has, and now we can both look forward to a better future.”