Foster dad makes an art out of juggling studies

The former Lostock Hall High School pupil from Walton-le-Dale, decided to go back to school more than 10 years after leaving school - and has never looked back.

Ian, now 32 and living in Buckshaw Village, did various labouring jobs before he decided he wanted something better from life.

He was interested in computers but before he could apply to UCLan to do a degree he had to upskill - and that meant attending a course at Runshaw College in Leyland.

Ian said: “I applied at Runshaw to do a foundation degree but because I had been out of education so long I had to do some and ECDL elective and another course but it kept getting cancelled do in the end because I did so well I didn’t need to do the other one.”

He says going back to study wasn’t easy as he was caring for three children at the time so ended up doing his degree part-time. However, age had it’s advantages.

Ian said: “Being older helped me focus but it was difficult at times trying juggle, do the studying and work.

“It was stressful and I was under a lot of pressure. I tried planning things and sticking to my plans.”

The effort paid off and he now holds a first class honours degree and said: “I’m glad I’ve done it. I can’t believe I got a first.

“I know I put the effort it and I am really chuffed.”