“I chose to invest in myself”: From grief to growth, one student’s journey inspires others ahead of Pembroke open evenings
Two upcoming open evenings in Pembroke are aiming to show how higher education can transform lives and few stories capture that better than that of local student Fred Murad.
Hosted by the University of Wales Trinity Saint David at Monkton Priory Community School, the events will highlight part-time degrees in Inclusive Education designed for those balancing work, family and other commitments.
For Fred, however, the journey into education didn’t begin with ambition but with loss.
“My journey into higher education was not born out of certainty, but out of profound loss and an urgent need to rebuild a life with meaning.”
After the death of his wife, his partner and best friend, Fred was left caring for his young children while navigating grief and uncertainty. He made the difficult decision to leave his job, stepping away from stability at one of the hardest points in his life.
“At that point, I had a choice: remain defined by loss or stand up and fight for my family’s future. I chose to invest in myself.”
What followed was a gradual rebuilding. Through the Springboard programme, Fred completed courses in numeracy, IT, classroom support and first aid - each one helping to restore confidence and routine.
“Returning to education as a mature student was not easy, but it became a lifeline… Each qualification helped me rebuild confidence, restore routine, and rediscover a sense of direction at a time when everything felt uncertain.”
That renewed sense of purpose led him into higher education, enrolling on the Foundation Degree in Inclusive Education delivered locally in Monkton.
For more than a decade, these courses have been offered within the community, creating accessible routes into higher education for those who might not otherwise consider it. Delivered in evening sessions at Monkton, they are particularly suited to people already working or volunteering in schools, including learning support assistants and teaching assistants.
Fred says the experience has been transformative.
“The programme is academically rigorous but deeply supportive, recognising that students often bring complex life experiences with them into their studies.”
Now in his second year, he has progressed into full-time employment as a tutor at Pembrokeshire College and is working towards his AET Level 3 teaching qualification.
But beyond career progression, the course has reshaped how he understands learning itself.
“The Foundation Degree in Inclusive Education has fundamentally changed how I understand learning, barriers and support. It has given me insight into what my own children and many other learners experience every day.”
What began as a personal turning point has become something more outward-facing.
“My learning is no longer just personal; it has become a way of giving back.”
His story is one the university hopes will resonate with others in the community who may be considering a return to education.
The upcoming open evenings will offer prospective students the chance to meet lecturers, explore the courses and ask questions in a relaxed, local setting.
These well-established programmes have been delivered at Monkton for over 10 years, with hundreds of students progressing to graduate with a degree. By offering courses locally, the university has created a proven pathway for non-traditional learners, particularly those balancing study with work and family life.
Taught after school hours in a supportive, less formal environment than a traditional campus, the evening sessions at Monkton make higher education more accessible to local people, especially those working or volunteering in schools as LSAs or teaching assistants.
Open evenings will take place at Monkton Priory Community School:
- Tuesday 19 May, 4:00–6:00pm
- Tuesday 23 June, 4:00–6:00pm
Fred has a clear message for anyone unsure about taking that first step:
“If you are thinking of doing this degree, I would highly recommend it. The university is very supportive, the lecturing staff are knowledgeable, welcoming, and genuinely want you to succeed.”
His journey is not about leaving the past behind, but about building something meaningful from it.
“What began in hardship has grown into a story of perseverance, reinvention and service… building a future with purpose - for myself, my children and for the students I now support.”
For those attending the open evenings, his experience offers a powerful example of what’s possible and a reminder that it’s never too late to start again.
For further information or if you have any questions about the programme, please contact Sue Ainsworth at s.ainsworth@uwtsd.ac.uk
Further Information
Arwel Lloyd
Principal PR and Communications Officer
Corporate Communications and PR
Email: arwel.lloyd@uwtsd.ac.uk
Phone: 07384 467076