Lisa Pipes

Support of “passionate” lecturers inspires mum-of-four to a degree

A mum-of-four and former single parent says the learning style and support of Derby College enabled her to gain a degree.
 
Lisa Pipes, 37, combined bringing up her young family with a two-year Foundation Degree in Criminal Justice and Offender Management. In her third year at the Roundhouse she combined that with a BA in Security and Offender Management to graduate with a 2.1.
 
Lisa had previously started a university geography degree but when she became pregnant with twins she found it too difficult to continue her studies.
 
Unlike university, she said College fitted in perfectly with school term times and she found that the level of support she received was “much greater.”
 
She previously worked in sales and banking, but her dream had always been to be a police officer. She is now applying to join the Derbyshire force.
 
Lisa, who remarried while she was at College, completed her work placement with the Derby charity Women’s Work, which supports disadvantaged and vulnerable women.

The lecturers are very passionate about what they do, and it really shows. Nothing is too much trouble. I’d always wanted to get a degree – a cap and gown and all that! – but I think as you get older you put obstacles in the way.

But if I can do it with four kids, I guess it shows it’s possible for most people. I made sure I made time for the kids and worked on my studies around them. I was a single mum and I also got remarried – so all sorts was going on.

I’d recommend Derby College, particularly if you are trying to juggle bringing up a young family.