08 Dec 2011 | Filed under: Student Stories

National award for student carer

A Barton Peveril student who excelled in exceptional circumstances has received national recognition for his dedication to learning while caring for his chronically ill mother.

Alex Kimber (18) from Eastleigh received a £1500 bursary to help with his studies at Brunel University in London after the college nominated him for a Helena Kennedy Foundation Award.

The Helena Kennedy Foundation provides financial and emotional assistance to help more than 100 students from disadvantaged backgrounds progress from further to higher education each year.

Throughout his time at Barton Peveril Alex looked after his mother who contracted multiple sclerosis when he was born.  Growing up as an only child in a single parent household put Alex into the role of carer from an early age and a worsening of his mother’s condition during his A level studies meant he lived alone while she was in hospital. Since returning home she has been looked after by professional carers.

Speaking after a special ceremony at House of Lords, Baroness Helena Kennedy QC said:  “I am delighted to have presented Alex with one of our awards in recognition of his huge achievement in reaching university. He has shown real talent and determination.”

Alex came to Barton Peveril from Quilley School and achieved A* and B grades at A level, enabling him to fulfil his academic dream of studying for a degree in product design engineering.