A former mature student of a further education college is flying high despite her disability.

Donna Morris-Davidson, 50, who is deaf is studying for an MSc in Public Health at the University of East London.

She graduated with a first-class BSc degree in Health Promotion and Public Health from the University of West London last year.

This came after completing an Access to Higher Education Diploma in Nursing at the College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London.

While studying at the College Donna earned a course Distinction and an Excellence Award for her studies.

Donna, said: “I graduated with a first-class degree with top grades for all modules.

“One of my lecturers has encouraged me to have one of my essays published, and I have also been a keynote speaker at a conference to student midwives.

“As you can imagine, I am very proud of my accomplishments.

“My MSc work is going to be very challenging, but I am so excited.

“I’ve faced many challenges as a deaf student, but I had fantastic support from the College in helping overcome any barriers to my learning, such as communications and seating arrangements.

“I enjoyed the course so much that I did not want to miss one session.

“I am eternally grateful to my tutors.

“They showed me how to study at degree level and gave me study methods I still use on my Masters.

“My time at the College was a gateway to a different world, and proved I could be successful.”

Access to Higher Education Diploma courses help people without formal qualifications to get places on university degree courses.

Christine Peck, course team leader in Health and Social Care, said: “Donna has gone from strength to strength, achieving not only a first-class degree but also regular commendations from her tutors.

“She’s a really positive role model for anyone wanting a career in healthcare, but especially for those who may feel their disability could hinder their academic studies and chosen career.”

The College of Haringey, Enfield and North East London offers Access to Higher Education Diploma courses in nursing, midwifery, social work, computing, engineering and science.