Stroud student at University of Worcester recognised for achievement

Maisie Harkess was awarded with a £1,000 scholarship for outstanding academic achievement. 

The award recognised the student’s achievements throughout the 2022/23 academic year.

“I’m really pleased and proud as I never thought I could achieve such good grades at university,” said the 22-year-old, of Stroud.

“I hope to use my scholarship to support my future studies.”

Maisie completed a two year foundation degree through the Learning Institute, in Cornwall, and is currently completing a top up year to get a full degree in Advancing Practice.

She has focused her studies on Inclusive Education.

The course is taught through a mixture of live online and face to face teaching sessions in small hub groups around the south and south west of the country.

The former Cirencester Deer Park School pupil would like to teach and is currently considering PGCE and teacher training routes for next year, having enjoyed the experience on the Advancing Practice course.

She said: “I liked the ability for me to complete my degree and work at the same time which my course with the Learning institute has allowed me to do.

“I have found it really useful to link theory to practice and continue with my professional development.”

Initially Maisie said she had initially seen her the degree as a means to progress to teaching, but she said she had been surprised by what the course had to offer.

She said: “I have enjoyed it more than I thought I would,” she said.

“I have been surprised by how interesting I have found my course and that I want to continue with my studies in education in years to come.”

The University of Worcester awards a number of Academic Scholarships and Prizes each year.

University of Worcester Provost, Ann Jordan, said: “Congratulations to all our students who earned an Academic Scholarship or prize this year.

"These students achieved highly in their studies and it is wonderful to be able to recognise their dedication and commitment during the last academic year.

"Hopefully this award will inspire them to further academic success in the future."