“I wanted to show my kids that there isn’t just one path to education,” says mum of four

Posted on 14 April 2025 • Arts, Student stories

Ellie, 34 from Somerset, studied her BA (Honours) Arts and Humanities degree at The Open University (OU) alongside her busy life as a mum of four. What started as a route to a new career became a lifeline when her family were hit with challenging times. She not only gained a qualification but also a feeling of self-worth and boundless confidence in her abilities.

“I completed my GCSEs and A Levels and like so many others, went to university as I thought it was the best thing to do,” said Ellie. “But the campus experience wasn’t for me, and I ended up dropping out in my first year.

“Family and friends told me that I’d never study again, so I put my ambitions aside, but in the back of my mind, I knew that someday I would finish my degree.

“It wasn’t until I had met my husband and had just gone back to work after having my third child that I felt like the timing was right. I researched the OU, and it was the perfect fit for balancing study with work and raising a young family. It gave me the flexibility that I needed.”

Overcoming challenges

Only a few months into her studies, Ellie’s family received some devasting news, but through it all, she was able to keep working towards her goal.

“Shortly after starting my studies, we were hit with a bombshell – our eldest daughter was diagnosed with leukaemia, and our lives were turned upside down.

“People assumed I wouldn’t be able to continue my studies, but that only fuelled my determination. Studying became a lifeline; it gave me something outside of hospitals, something to hold onto.

“After my child finished treatment in February 2020, we were looking forward to some normalcy, and then COVID hit. I had to contend with home-schooling, a new baby brother for my girls, and my studies, but the kids and I soon got into a rhythm; it was just a case of being organised.

“I wanted to show my children that there isn’t just one path to education, and I felt like completing my degree would show them that there are lots of ways to achieve your ambitions.

“But ultimately, I pursued my degree for me – it was necessary for the career I wanted working in museums, but more than anything, I loved studying and learning.”

Utilising every second

With four young children and various part-time jobs, fitting studies into her schedule could be tricky at times, but the flexibility and support at the OU made it possible for Ellie to study when it worked for her.

“Balancing everything wasn’t easy. I often found myself typing assignments with one hand while feeding a baby or reading through my module material whilst the kids were at school or preschool.

“I couldn’t have done it without my husband, who made sure I had uninterrupted study time when I had a deadline, or my mum, who became my unofficial proofreader.

“There were also times when I had to let my tutor know what was happening at home, and they were incredibly supportive, offering extensions or advice.

“The support got me through my degree, and I never felt like I was alone on my study journey.”

Pursuing her career goals

Having graduated in 2023, Ellie is now utilising her qualification and making her dreams a reality.

“I always wanted to achieve a 2:1 or a first, and I did it. Now, I’m considering a master’s degree, which would take my career ambitions one step further.

“Since completing my studies, I’ve landed a volunteer role at Holburne Museum, helping with exhibitions and stewarding visitors. I wouldn’t have been able to secure this position without my qualification; it gave me the confidence and knowledge to begin something new.”

Words of encouragement

Ellie’s journey is proof that with determination, anything is possible.

“For anyone else who might be considering studying with the OU, I would say that although it might seem daunting at first, the support is phenomenal, and the sense of achievement is priceless.

“You can either be six years down the line with a degree or six years down the line and in the same place you are now.

“My journey with the OU has taught me that I can do the hard things. It’s given me self-worth and changed my life, showing me what I’m capable of and helping my loved ones see it too.”

If you’re ready to change your tomorrow with the OU, check out our latest courses or speak to our team to find out more.