Hi everybody, I've recovered from my GCSEs now, and am doing my ‘A' levels at Chichester College . Everything is going really well, mostly because the staff there are all so helpful and caring and I feel able to discuss any queries or problems that do arise.

While I was at Manhood Community College I had excellent support from all the staff there. I never had any worries about being disabled. It was very reassuring to know that if I had a problem, there was always somebody who would sort it out or help me to overcome the difficulties. I was sad to leave Manhood as I had such good backup there, and I was apprehensive to know what lay ahead of me.

In June I went to Chichester College for an interview, where I told them the type of help I need and support I require in and out of classes. I discussed ways to make studying easier for me, and generally covered all aspects of college life where I would need help. I thought all this would help decisions to be made well before I started there. I optimistically thought that after the interview, some of the things we talked about would be arranged some weeks before I started there. However I did not really know anything definite about my life at college until about three days before I started there! I think I would have felt less apprehensive on my first day at college if I had met my new helper beforehand. Perhaps I was too optimistic, but I was very enthusiastic and it is very frustrating having to rely on other people for everything. I realised I wouldn't be the only nervous student on the first day, but forward planning and reassurance for people like me does make a huge difference.

Now that I have been at Chichester College for almost a term, I could not recommend the place more highly, as I am so happy there. It feels really brilliant to be able to drive around the corridors without anybody staring at me and to be somewhere I can be safe but independent!

Lizzie Baily lizzie@wellspringwestsussex.org.uk