David’s dedication reaps dividends

David Beckett’s determination and academic success is more remarkable than that of other students, for he was paralysed from the neck down in a diving accident at the age of 14. Despite this, he went on to clinch four good ‘A’ levels and has now completed the first year of a BSc (Hons) degree in Social Sciences at the University of Teesside.

David, 20, from Darlington, achieved two grade As in General Studies and Law, a B in Politics and a C in History, all at Queen Elizabeth Sixth Form College. He has a team who provide twenty-four hour care, bring him through to the University and wait outside Lectures and seminars. His Local Education Authority has also funded a typist to take Lecture notes, and also for essay writing and examinations.

David is enjoying the course’s diverse mix of sociology, social policy and politics. He said: “I like the module Social and Political Ideas; I’ve always been interested in where power lies in society, where your taxes go and how decisions are made. I also enjoy the debating and discussion aspects involved in the course – I’ve always loved an argument! We’ve looked at crime and social justice, which is also intriguing. I haven’t decided on a future career yet, but I am thinking about some type of research work.”

While in a spinal unit in Southport at the age of 15, David’s determination was clear. He said: “My tutor for GCSE German and French advised me to drop the German. I carried on, and went on to get an A star in German and an A in French. My advice to anyone in similar circumstances is don’t give up. There is help available and nothing is beyond you.”

For more information on the BSc (Hons) degree in Social Sciences please call 01642 342308, or check the University of Teesside’s web site at www.tees.ac.uk

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