From homeless at 16 with no GCSEs to degree-qualified tutor - meet the inspirational Helen Perry

Having left school with no GCSEs and finding herself homeless at the age of 16, Helen’s formative years were far from easy as she also contended with significant mental health difficulties due to a traumatic upbringing.

However, as a 30-year-old single mum, she made the decision to embark on a seven-year journey with York College that would see Helen go from resitting the Maths and English exams she had failed at school to graduating with a teaching degree in the magnificent setting of York Minster.

That would be a remarkable achievement in itself but, when you also learn that Helen is dyslexic, neurodiverse and suffers from a chronic health condition, it becomes clear that she is truly an amazing woman who merits recognition on this most appropriate of days.

Who better then, than Helen herself, to describe, in her own words, the road she has travelled from determined (if slightly) nervous mature student to one of York College’s most popular and recognisable tutors who also acts as a Listening Ear Volunteer for members of staff…

“At the age of 30, and a single mum to my beautiful boy, I woke up one day asking myself what I wanted to do with my life regarding a career. I left school with no GCSES, homeless at 16 and with significant mental health difficulties due to a trauma upbringing. 

“I walked into York College 14 years ago where I asked to join a course in a subject that would lead me to supporting others. I had to start right at the beginning as I enrolled on a Maths and English course and, so, the journey began. 

“Fast forward seven years later and, not only had I completed my Maths and English, I’d also done a two-year Access to Higher Education course in Social Sciences, a three-year degree in Community & Public Sector Management and a two-year PGCE part-time. This was achieved whilst holding down two jobs, being a single mum and volunteering with no family support.  As a wise tutor once told me, ‘Never say no to anything!’.

“From start to finish, I had nothing but outstanding teaching, support and kindness. I was also given opportunities to grow as a person and to be respected for who I am. 

“I never said no to anything either and, becoming a Police Support Volunteer helping victims of crime, led to a full-time position and a career that span just short of 10 years supporting victims of serious crime. When I completed my PGCE, I was given the opportunity to work at York College to gain the knowledge and experience needed to complete the course. 

“I never thought teaching would be possible as I am dyslexic, neurodiverse and, let’s say, a unique personality and, after finishing my PGCE, a job opportunity arose that meant I left College with a heavy heart, but also knowing I would be back one day.

“Six years later, I returned to the place which has always been a special place for me. It’s where I call my second home and also where my son, who is now 19, studies Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science and an evening class in Sports Massage. 

“I started in General Education in February 2023 as a Part-Time Variable Hours tutor and I have now progressed to working full-time in Uniformed Protective Services which allows me to pass my passion, knowledge and professional experiences on to students to enhance their learning journey. Who would have thought I could go from one day waking up with no career to being in a job that I love, that challenges me every day and allows me to teach, support and empower many more students to reach their own personal goals? 

“I hugely value working within a college team and within a wider college workforce who have supported me along the way and some who taught me at the start of my journey.

“When I first applied to College navigating through my own barriers of disabilities was daunting. I have a chronic health condition, mental health difficulties and dyslexia. 

“However, these fears were unfounded as I have had so much support accessing the things I need to do my job from the team I work within. I have had nothing but support and understanding in a non-judgemental environment. 

“I would not be where I am today if it was not for York College. Never lose sight of your dreams, as if you want something enough you can get there.” 

To learn more about our Maths GCSE course, please click here

Details on our English GCSE course can be found here

For information on our Access to HE Diploma in Humanities and Social Sciences, visit here

Discover what Teacher Training opportunities are available at York College & University Centre here

You can also discuss any of our courses at greater length and meet our tutors at the next York College & University Centre Open Event on Tuesday 1st April. Register a place here