Interested in the Access Course?
Thinking about a career in healthcare?
Our Access to Health and Welfare course at NWRC Strabane could be your first step!
Local mum Sharon McDaid turned her dream of becoming a midwife into reality — starting at Strabane Campus.
After years out of education, the Access course in Health and Welfare helped her gain qualifications, confidence, and a place at Queen’s University. Now, she's a qualified midwife!
She says: “If I can do it, anyone can."
Name:
Sharon McDaid
Age:
41
What previous education did you have?
When I left school, unfortunately I didn’t have the grades needed to go straight into university. However I did pursue higher education courses within NWRC in catering & hospitality, followed by beauty therapy.
Why did you decide to study the Access course?
I decided to study the Access to Health and Welfare course at NWRC because I’ve wanted to become a midwife ever since I had my first child in my late teens. The care and support I received from the midwives during that time had a lasting impact on me. Since I didn’t have the necessary qualifications to apply for university, the Access course gave me the perfect opportunity to get back into education and work towards that dream.
Why Strabane campus?
The Strabane campus was ideal for me because it was local and accessible. As a mature student with family responsibilities, it was important to study somewhere close to home. The smaller class sizes and supportive environment really helped me settle in and build my confidence. Especially since I had been out of education for quite a number of years.
What was the course like?
The course was challenging but incredibly rewarding. It covered a wide range of subjects relevant to health and social care, and it really prepared me for academic study at a university level. The tutors were so encouraging and understanding, they genuinely wanted to see us succeed as students. Being in a class with people from all walks of life also made the experience really enriching.
What did you do after?
After completing the Access course, I applied to Queens university in Belfast to study midwifery and I got in! It was a very proud moment for me and my family. I completed this degree with 2:1 and was offered a permanent contract with WHSCT as a midwife, and it all started with that one step back into education at NWRC.
Would you recommend the course?
Absolutely. If you’re someone who thinks it’s too late or you’ve missed your chance don’t give up. The Access course is designed for people like us, and it truly opens doors. It gave me the qualifications, confidence, and motivation I needed to change mine & my family’s life. And if I can do it anyone can.
