Jamie makes grade despite blindness (From Bradford Telegraph and Argus)

Jamie makes grade despite blindness

1:10am Thursday 14th August 2008

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Thousands of students in Bradford were waking up to the most nail-biting time of their school lives – A-level results day.

Among them was 18-year-old Jamie Lowbridge. The Bradford College Sixth Form Centre student is expected to get top grades in psychology, English language and sociology – despite being registered blind since birth.

The former Hanson School pupil, who has very limited sight, has achieved academic success throughout her school career and hopes to continue that record today.

She said: “I have had to work very hard. Growing up coping with my disability has made me eager to take on challenges and gaining my A- levels and heading on to higher education is part of the challenges a lot of people in my situation would not normally experience.”

Despite her visual impairment, Jamie, of Wibsey, is able to read words magnified on a computer screen so she can use a laptop to read and take notes.

“My limited sight does make things harder and sometimes you do get very drained as I am on my computer all day.

“But it has still been enjoyable. As a partially-sighted young person I have had a lot of help to get me where I want to be. Bradford College has been a great environment to learn in and tutors have been brilliant with the support they have given me throughout my studies.”

Jamie, who has also been an active member of the college’s Student Council, plans to ready for a BSc (Hons) degree in psychology at the University of Huddersfield.

Tony Laycock, head of the College’s Sixth Form Centre said: “We’re hopeful for Jamie’s results today. She’s shown a great deal of commitment and worked hard throughout her studies. We wish her all the best for the future and going on to university in September.”

For those who don’t their desired grades the advice is “stay calm, don’t panic and get organised”.

The Universities and Colleges Admissions Service’s clearing process allows pupils to still secure a place at university.

Jennie Coates, head of admissions at the University of Bradford, said: “Ringing up universities for a place through the clearing might be the last thing you feel like doing.

“It’s important to stay calm. There are a number of things students can do to help themselves.

“Firstly, make sure that you are available to receive your results on results day. Secondly, ensure that you are familiar with clearing practices and procedures. “And finally, start planning now.”

Visit bradford.ac.uk/clearing, call freephone 0800 073 1225 or e-mail clearing@bradford.ac.uk for details.

The University of Bradford is holding three open days for people applying through the clearing system this Saturday and Sunday from 10am to 4pm and next Wednesday from 9.30am to 3.30pm and 6pm to 8pm.

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