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27 November 2023
A Tunbridge Wells student who overcame a number of challenges to gain a Diploma has won an award recognising her outstanding commitment in the face of difficult personal circumstances.
Xaida Tablazon, was named by LASER Learning Awards as the winner in the Outstanding Commitment to Study section of its annual awards after gaining her Access to Higher Education Healthcare Diploma at North Kent College.
The 32-year-old, who battled a number of issues whilst taking the year long course, said: “I am honoured to have been awarded first place from the LASER Learning Awards and overwhelmed with gratitude to have received this recognition.
“My experience whilst studying the Access course was not smooth sailing. The most challenging part was dealing with my mental health, going through marriage counselling, selling our house, all combined with being a full-time working mum. However, with a positive mindset, determination and perseverance, it’s helped keep my end goal in focus, which is to get into Midwifery.
“I want to say a big thanks to my tutor, lecturers and amazing family for their continuous support and for believing in me. I couldn’t have done it without them.”
Alison Talbot, Head of Curriculum – Access and Science at North Kent College, was delighted for Xaida: “Xaida was an outstanding Access student. She demonstrated her commitment and dedication to her studies and overcame many barriers and hurdles. Despite her difficult personal struggles Xaida rarely asked for support and demonstrated a determination to prove her ability and to succeed no matter what.
“Xaida was always the first to offer her peers support throughout the course and would put her own problems aside to help others. During her time studying at North Kent College Xaida worked tirelessly as a Healthcare Assistant at Pembury Hospital, where she had to work long hours and showed enormous resilience and courage to continue being dedicated to her patients, whilst remaining committed to her studies.
“Xaida completed the course with 42 out of 45 credits at Distinction. This is a phenomenal achievement, and one which Xaida should be very proud. Xaida went on to accept her place to study Midwifery at The University of Central Lancashire.
“Well done, Xaida, this award is truly deserved and we wish you the very best in your future studies, throughout which I am sure you will shine.”
Xaida wins a prize of £200 and entry into the national Keith Fletcher Memorial Access to HE Prize. LASER is the awarding body that validates the Diplomas.
Access to Higher Education Diplomas provide a route into university for anyone over the age of 19, who might not have the traditional entry requirements needed.
They also offer a number of benefits such as no tuition fees if you are between the ages of 19 and 23 and have never studied at A Level or above. Those who are eligible for fees can take out an Advanced Learner Loan, which is written off upon competition of the degree.
The Access to Higher Education Nursing and Healthcare Diploma is a one-year course comprised of Level 3 units (A level equivalent) in Health Studies, Psychology and Biology.
Students without GCSE Maths and/or English language at C or above may have the opportunity to study GCSE Maths and GCSE English language while studying the Access course at no additional cost. The course is offered at both North Kent College’s Tonbridge and Dartford campuses.
To find out more visit the Higher Education section of the North Kent College website.
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About North Kent College
North Kent College is set across four campuses at Dartford, Gravesend, Hadlow and Tonbridge, Students benefit from a range of state-of-the-art facilities including the highly acclaimed Miskin Theatre, the National Maritime Training Centre and a ‘concept orchard and vineyard’ that utilises AI technology and robotic fruit picking.
Many facilities across North Kent College’s campuses are open to the public and include a theatre, professional standard restaurants, hair salons and spa and beauty facilities that include sauna and steam rooms.
Visit www.northkent.ac.uk for more information.
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www.northkent.ac.uk 
01322 629400 
press@northkent.ac.uk 
