A MOTHER-OF-TWO says she received the greatest Christmas gift of all after receiving her graduation diploma and attaining her nursing degree.

After previously working in Topshop, Rebekah Jones, from Cwmbran, returned to education when she decided to study Access to Nursing, in a bid to achieve her dream career.

Despite being a single mum, Ms Jones juggled studying part-time at Newport’s Nash College with caring for her children Ieuan and Megan, before successfully applying to the University of South Wales.

She said: “I’ve always felt I was born to be a nurse.

“I think having my children and a bit more life experience really helped me to take the plunge and go for it.

“Doing a full time nursing degree for three years was tough at times, especially as I’ve never been particularly academic, so the idea of essays and coursework was quite daunting.

“But I knew I was better at the practical, hands on aspect, so I really enjoyed the hospital placements.”

She carried out three placements at the Royal Gwent Hospital, and now works there as a staff nurse in elective surgery.

“I couldn’t have done it without the help of my parents – they have been amazing,” she added.

“There’s so much support available at the University too, with the lecturers and student advice team making sure you’re on track, so I was able to get through the tough times and come out with a brilliant degree.”

Ms Jones encouraged others to follow her example.

“My advice to anyone thinking of going into nursing, or studying a bit later in life, to just go for it,” she added. “It’s hard work at times, but the end result is so worth it. I’ve made some lifelong friends there who feel like family.

“Follow your dreams.”