When Anna first arrived at Derwen College, she was a shy student who had struggled to fit in at mainstream college. Born with a brain injury that resulted in learning and communication difficulties, and short-term memory loss, Anna found it hard to make friends and lacked confidence in her abilities.
Her mum, Kathy, recalls: “Within a short time at Derwen College, Anna was flourishing – making friends, learning life skills and gaining the confidence to do anything! Her journey shows what’s possible with the right opportunities. She’s an inspiration!”
Supported by her residence staff and Performing Arts team, Anna quickly found her voice. She threw herself into every opportunity, from singing and dancing to acting in college productions. Anna took on leading roles in ‘Beauty and the Beast’ and ‘The Little Mermaid’, even mastering a French accent for her lines. Her singing solos could move audiences to tears, and she became a valued member of the College’s Makaton sign, song, and dance group, DOT (Derwen on Tour), performing at national and local events. Anna was part of Derwen Dance Crew (DDC), winning competitions in both group and solo categories. She also joined the Duke of Edinburgh’s Awards scheme, going on to achieve Gold and visiting Buckingham Palace!
She was awarded the Overall Outstanding Student Cup at graduation and went on to complete a supported internship, where she honed her employment skills on weekly placements.
Since graduating, Anna’s passion for learning and performing has continued to inspire others. She worked with children at Oswestry-based Fantastic Funhouse, and supported young people at the inclusive dance school, Identity School of Dance in Shrewsbury. She now volunteers with the Performing Arts team at Derwen College, sharing her experience and enthusiasm with current students. Anna is also involved in the RAWD Project in Chester, which champions inclusive arts, and she is a regular contributor to podcasts where she shares her journey and advocates for young people with additional needs.
Confidence and independence
Anna’s confidence and independence have grown so much that she now lives in her own home, thanks to the life skills she developed at college.
Anna’s dedication was further recognised when she won the Inspirational Adult Learner award at the Shropshire Chamber Business Awards. “It felt like the Soap Awards. I screamed my head off while my mum cried,” Anna says.
Reflecting on her time at Derwen, Anna says, “Coming to Derwen College brought out my talkative side and gave me confidence. I started to believe in myself.”
Anna’s story is a shining example of how specialist further education can unlock potential and transform lives. Her achievements are being celebrated as part of Natspec’s ‘The Power of Specialist Education’ campaign, which highlights the life-changing impact of the tailored support of specialist further education.
