What made you choose Reigate College?

I really fancied a change and wanted to come to somewhere bigger with a greater choice of subjects. 

What do you like about studying at College?

It’s really friendly here and people are very accepting, you can just be yourself. 

How has the College supported you?

I’m profoundly deaf and wear two cochlear implants. The College has been so supportive. I’ve benefitted from a one-to-one tutor who’s helped me keep up-to-date and clarified things I haven’t heard in lessons. I chose all BTEC subjects so I did feel pressure to meet the coursework deadlines, but all my teachers have been really supportive and encouraging. 

What do you enjoy doing outside College?

I love swimming; my favourite stroke is butterfly. I enjoy the challenge of it; I train up to seven times a week, sometimes starting as early as 6am so I have to be really disciplined! I’m part of the GB Deaf Swimming Club and have travelled to Russia and America to take part in Deaf Swimming Competitions. I finished fifth in the 200m butterfly at the European championships and 7th in the world championships. 

What are your career plans?

I’ve got a conditional offer from The University of Bath. I hope to go there in September and join the swim team. Polly, 2017