Alumna Cerys Lloyd from The Henley College Continues Academic Journey in Human Geography and Social Research

Former student Cerys Lloyd is proving that there is no single “right” path to success. After studying the BTEC National Extended Diploma in Health and Social Care at The Henley College from 2020, Cerys has gone on to achieve a First-Class degree, win academic prizes, and secure a prestigious postgraduate scholarship.

Today, she is an MA Human Geography Research student and Research Assistant at Newcastle University and she credits her time at college as a turning point in her journey.

Finding the Right Path

“I came to The Henley College in September 2020 after leaving sixth form due to my health,” Cerys explains. “I decided to study the BTEC Health and Social Care course as I was interested in psychology, and far preferred the assessment structure.”

After completing her Diploma, Cerys initially planned to study psychology and counselling at university. But on results day, she had a change of heart.

“I realised that I no longer wanted to study psychology and counselling, which is what I had applied to do. On results day, I called my firm choice, York St John University and asked if, hypothetically, I had changed my mind, might I be able to study their BSc Geography course?”

Throughout school, geography had always been her favourite subject. However, when illness prevented her from completing her A Levels, including geography, she thought that door had closed.

“Thankfully, the answer to my question was a resounding YES! After a rather nerve-wracking 24 hours, the change was processed, and I was officially a geographer again!”

Falling in Love with Geography

Cerys spent three “wonderful years” in York, graduating with a First-Class BSc Georgraphy and receiving a graduation prize in recognition of her achievements.

“I found that I especially loved human geography, specifically social geography,” she says. By the start of her final year, she had decided to pursue postgraduate study.

In February 2025, she applied for the MA Human Geography Research course at Newcastle University and soon received an offer. Even more excitingly, as she prepared to move to Newcastle, she learned she had been awarded one of the University’s Postgraduate Opportunity Scholarships, covering around half of her tuition fees.

“It feels exciting, scary and hopeful, all rolled into one!” she says of her current studies. “I’m exploring working in the charitable sector, civil service, social research, and the possibility of applying for a PhD!”

Combining Skills and Making an Impact

During her undergraduate degree, Cerys worked as a Trainee Adviser with Citizens Advice, completing an internship in her second year.

“It was one of those wonderful opportunities that allowed me to combine my expertise from health and social care and geography,” she explains. “I’ve even had the chance to combine my mapping skills and knowledge from my college placement!”

Her story is a powerful example of how skills gained at college, from research and communication to analytical thinking, continue to open doors in unexpected ways.

“Geography is a wonderful discipline, and I would recommend it to anyone who often finds themselves asking ‘why’. It has opened many exciting doors for me!”

Support That Made the Difference

Cerys is quick to recognise the people at The Henley College who had the greatest impact on her journey.

“The support of my tutor, Shelley Clark, really helped me prepare to move on to further study. She was so encouraging and supportive!”

She was also an active member of the Student Union and holds fond memories of “summer picnics on Rotherfield Lawn.”

Navigating college with a mental health condition was challenging, but she says the Welfare team made all the difference.

“Emma Holmes and Zoe Jelfs, and everyone else in Welfare, their support made it possible. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them.”

Advice to Current Students

Cerys hopes her story reassures current students who may feel uncertain about their future.

“I hope my story helps to show that you can ALWAYS change your mind! Don’t let anyone tell you that you can’t. Your path may look a little different, but that’s ok.”

“Once you finish school and college, you’ll meet so many kind, hard-working, successful people who have been on journeys that don’t match the paths you’re aware of today. Our strengths lie in our differences!”

“And, to anyone who wonders whether I’ve used the skills I learned during my time at college, it will all work out. There is no wrong path, only YOUR path.”

From Health and Social Care student to award-winning geographer and postgraduate scholar, Cerys Lloyd’s journey is a powerful reminder that with courage, flexibility and support, new opportunities are always within reach.