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Michelle, Connie, Megan, Munashe and Max all entered into the Bath Half next 14 March to raise money for Quadstar. Any other willing runners please contact Nick!
UWS Newsletter June 2026
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Every student deserves to flourish

Our Quad-Stars

2026 – Ffion – Aberystwyth Vet School,  Ib –  Bristol Dental School,  Maddi – Bristol Vet School,  Daniela – Bristol Vet School,  Munashe – Bristol University,  Najma – Bristol Dental School, Shiraz – Bristol Medical School, Lily – Bristol Vet School

2025 – Tiara – Brighton Medical School,  Issy – Bristol Vet School,  Zara – Harper & Keele Vet School,  Ryan – Bristol Vet School, 

Megan – Nottingham Vet School,  Raluca – Bristol Vet School 

2024 – Megan – The Northern Ballet School 

2023 – Ismaeel – Kingswood School,  Pavishana – Kingswood School,  Moza – Prior Park College 

2022 – Max – London Film Academy,  Wed – Kingswood School,  Jordan – Kingswood School,  

2021 – Amber – Harper Keele Vet School,  Anishia – Kingswood,  Coby – Atlantic College,  Alicia – Bristol Vet School

2020 – Salehah – Kings College

2019 – Tasin – Dulwich boys College

2017 – Martha – Atlantic College 

Quadstar educational funding - icon for quadstar
Quadstar educational funding - icon for quadstar

Shiraz

BRISTOL MEDICAL SCHOOL

I had to rebuild my education from the beginning, starting with an ESOL course before progressing through further education and eventually gaining a place to study Medicine at the University of Bristol.

My journey into Medicine has been challenging, and I have had to balance my studies with supporting my family, working whenever possible, and managing difficult personal, health and financial circumstances. Despite these challenges, I have continued to pursue opportunities alongside my degree, including getting involved in research, presenting my work at an international conference.

I am very grateful to the Quadstar Foundation for its support. The grant will help relieve some of the financial pressure I have experienced throughout my studies and allow me to focus more fully on completing my degree. I am also particularly grateful for the mentoring programme and the opportunity to eventually support another student on their own journey.

Quadstar’s support will lift a significant financial burden and give me the opportunity to focus on my studies and the opportunities I have worked hard to pursue. I am incredibly grateful for their belief in my journey and for the support they are giving me, and for the difference their support will make to my circumstances.

I came to the UK from Iraq as a teenager and arrived without being able to speak English..
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Lily

BRISTOL VET SCHOOL

During sixth form, I experienced difficult circumstances at home, including housing insecurity, which had a significant impact on me and my education. Despite this, I remained determined to become a vet, seeking out work experience wherever I could and working hard academically to achieve AAB in my A levels.

I came into contact with Quadstar only a few months ago, and I’m incredibly grateful that they took the time to listen to my circumstances and support me. Although they typically support students undertaking a second degree, they still took the time to understand my situation. Nick in particular has been incredibly supportive and reassuring. Quadstar’s support has meant so much to me, both financially and emotionally.

I’m incredibly grateful to Quadstar for believing in me and supporting me at such an important point in my life. I’m looking forward to becoming part of the Quadstar community, continuing towards my goal of becoming a vet, and hopefully one day giving back to the community that has supported me.

 

This September, I’ll be starting my first year studying Veterinary Science at the University of Bristol

Ffion

ABERYSTWYTH UNIVERSITY VET SCHOOL |2026

Becoming a vet has always been my dream and studying Veterinary Biosciences has been an important part of my journey, strengthening my knowledge, confidence and passion for veterinary medicine. I feel incredibly grateful and excited to have the opportunity to begin this new chapter.

Although being offered a place to study Veterinary Medicine has been a dream come true, starting the course as a second-degree student has also brought financial worries that have sometimes felt overwhelming. As this will be my second degree, I am not eligible for any tuition fee support. Despite working and saving as much as I can, I was still worried about falling short financially and felt unsure how I would manage the costs, until I found Quadstar.

The support from Quadstar will make a significant difference in helping me manage the financial demands of the course, allowing me to focus more fully on my studies. Additionally, their support means so much more than financial help alone. Being welcomed into the Quadstar community has made me feel valued and encouraged; their kindness has given me even more motivation to make the most of this opportunity.

I am eternally grateful to Nick and everyone involved with the Quadstar Foundation for their kindness and generosity. This grant will make a real difference to my journey, and I am determined to work hard and make the most of every opportunity.

Hi, I’m Ffion, and I am going to study Veterinary Medicine at Aberystwyth University this September!

Najma

BRISTOL DENTAL SCHOOL

I’m a final-year dental student, but my journey to dental school was far from straightforward. After taking a couple of gap years and navigating the challenges of being a young carer, I’m incredibly grateful to have reached this point and to be completing a career I have worked hard for.

One of the biggest barriers throughout my journey has been financial. Limited financial resources have often meant having to turn down opportunities that could have helped me grow academically and professionally. That is why the support from Quadstar has meant so much to me. Their help with the costs of my final year has given me greater peace of mind and allowed me to focus on completing my degree.

I’m also incredibly grateful for the community Quadstar has created. I hope that, in the future, I can give back by supporting and encouraging other students from carer and care-leaver backgrounds to pursue dentistry and helping them access opportunities that may not otherwise feel within reach.

Quadstar has been a real lifeline in my final year of dental school, giving me the support and reassurance I need to see my journey through to the end.
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Munashe

BRISTOL UNIVERSITY - HISTORY | 2026

Following an intense year’s work completing an Access to HE course in Law and Criminology I was incredibly pleased to achieve the grades necessary to accept my offer. I was also chosen to receive the Barrie Williams Scholarship, a scholarship open to prospective history undergraduate students who were state educated. While delighted by my offer and scholarship, it transpired that the total funds available to me for the academic year will, for several reasons, be insufficient to cover my rent and living costs.

Very kindly, the Quadstar organsiation offered to subsidise the extra living costs that I otherwise would have had no other way or sourcing – even with part-time work. Coming from a low-income background means that, with government loans alone, enrolling in my dream course at my dream university would have been completely unfeasible. However, with the amazing help of Quadstar, I will be able to pursue my dreams and goals in higher education. I am now able to cover all my rental payments and living costs without the intense worries that come with significant financial burdens .

I am indescribably and eternally grateful for both the financial and moral support provided to me by the Quadstar team. Following a turbulent and tricky experience in secondary and sixth form education, I felt demoralised and unhopeful about my prospects at university and further employment. However the valuable support and guidance I’ve received from the Quadstar team has been completely transformational in my life . It has opened so many doors that would otherwise have been firmly shut .

I was delighted to be offered a conditional place at my first-choice university, University of Bristol, to study history.

Daniella

BRISTOL VET SCHOOL | 2026

My journey into veterinary medicine began at Taufer’s Veterinary High School in Czechia, and continued through a Veterinary Biosciences honours degree at the University of Glasgow. Along the way, I worked across the profession, from a pharmaceutical veterinary company and small animal practices to supporting Official Veterinarians as a Certification Support Officer, while working towards my goal of studying veterinary medicine.

Like many graduate-entry students, I have faced financial challenges. I am not eligible for a tuition fee loan and have had limited family support throughout my studies.

Over the past two years, things became much harder. A serious hand infection left me unable to work, and as my savings ran out, I decided to live in a van to reduce my living costs and continue my studies. At times it has felt isolating and exhausting, but I remained determined to keep going because becoming a vet is something I have worked towards for many years and am not willing to give up on.

The support from the Quadstar Foundation is truly life changing. It will help relieve the pressure of tuition fees, allowing me to focus on my studies and complete my degree without constant worry about whether I can continue.

More than that, it makes me feel supported at a time when I really needed it. I am incredibly grateful to the Quadstar Foundation, and especially to Nick and Michelle, for believing in me, investing in my future, and offering encouragement beyond the grant itself. I hope that one day I will be able to give back to the profession and support others who are pursuing ambitious goals despite difficult circumstances.

I am a second-year veterinary student on the Accelerated Graduate Entry Programme at the University of Bristol.
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Maddi

BRISTOL VET SCHOOL | 2026

I’m so glad to find Quadstar and the amazing team running it, without them I’d really be struggling to afford my final year placements!
My first degree was in Veterinary Nursing, and I’ve loved nursing alongside my degree, but it really does take up so much of my free time – thanks to Quadstar I can decrease my hours whilst still getting to enjoy vet school without the worries of finances!

Hi I'm Maddi a final year AGEP student from Bristol University.
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Ib

UNIVERSITY OF BRISTOL DENTAL SCHOOL |2026

I did not let this suppress my dreams or my outlook on life. I have always been a big dreamer, aiming high in everything, and discipline was always my priority. In my opinion, I am not the smartest, but I have always had the discipline to keep working through whatever challenges life threw at me. Determination and resilience have guided me to becoming a proud dental student, helping others as I continue to grow in knowledge within this profession.

I started dentistry late due to many life struggles: homelessness, financial hardship, self-doubt, and more. Unfortunately, not everything went to plan; being an independent student proved very difficult. Money struggles can affect every part of life. Even when I was young, I understood how important money was, and even now I get anxious wondering whether I’ll be able to eat tomorrow. Many of my life struggles have shaped who I am today, the things I’ve seen and been through, but I was always determined to come out on top. This adversity helps me understand my patients far more deeply. Being able to put myself in the shoes of people in need allows me to develop treatment plans with real understanding of the difficulties that may be limiting them.

Boxing, which I have practiced for a long time while developing my skills, helped me build a positive mindset. There were many times I was mentally drained and unwilling to continue, as I am only human. Staying active through the gym, boxing, and MMA throughout my life, and now while studying dentistry, has kept me optimistic. Alongside these hobbies that help keep me sane, and the struggle of working jobs during dental school, Quadstar has come to my aid, giving me a grant that will let me focus more on my studies. I have never received this kind of support before and was very doubtful going in. They also check in on me and give me valuable advice, and I believe they will be the first good mentor(s) I have ever had in my life. I will be forever grateful

As a care leaver, I was always limited by resources, support, and expectation.
tiara quadstar grantee

Tiara

UNIVERSITY OF BRIGHTON | 2025

Growing up in care as a care leaver meant limited opportunities, but I refused to let adversity define me. Instead, I developed resilience, discipline, and a deep passion for helping others.

I previously studied Biomedical Science, graduating with a 2:1, and worked for four years as a care assistant, supporting patients with dignity and compassion across a wide range of physical and mental health needs. Alongside this, I have raised money for charities such as Mind through events including a skydive, and I have shared mental health awareness online to inspire and encourage others.

My early teenage years in the Army Cadet Force shaped me profoundly. I achieved my Gold Duke of Edinburgh Award, served as Parade Marshall at just 16, and learned the values of leadership, loyalty and perseverance. These values continue to guide me today and I aim to carry them into my studies as a medical student.

Unfortunately, because I already hold a degree, I am not eligible for student finance to cover my tuition fees. Without support, I cannot continue my studies. Receiving this grant would directly contribute to my tuition, allowing me to pursue my dream of becoming a doctor and specialising in trauma care where I can make the greatest impact.

Zara quadstar student

Issy

BRISTOL VET SCHOOL | 2025

You could call me the most unconventional vet student you’ll ever meet. I’m 31, a mum of two, and this is my third degree on my journey to finally achieve my dream of becoming a vet.

School wasn’t easy for me and I took more than a few gap years before returning to education when my eldest was just 12 months old. I began with a degree in Veterinary Nursing at Hartpury University, then went on to qualify as a Veterinary Physiotherapist through a postgraduate diploma at Nottingham Vet School.

Running my own physiotherapy business while studying has been a constant balancing act, juggling childcare costs, household bills, and a 120-mile round trip several times a week. It has been relentless, but I refuse to give up.

The Quadstar Foundation has lifted a huge weight from my shoulders, easing financial pressure and giving me the chance to focus fully on my studies. I am so grateful to Nick and Michelle for this opportunity to build a secure future for myself and my children, Leo and Dakota.

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Zara

HARPER & KEELE VET SCHOOL | 2025

I did not achieve the grades to enter vet school directly, so I pursued a Biomedical Science degree, graduating with First-Class Honours, and continue to work as an HCPC-registered Biomedical Scientist, even after Covid.

I am now a Veterinary Medicine student at the Harper & Keele Vet School, balancing my studies with caring for my fiancé, who has Multiple Sclerosis, while continuing to work for the NHS to support my education.

As a graduate, I am not eligible for tuition fee loans, so support from Quad-Star is life-changing, enabling me to continue my studies and achieve my dream of becoming a veterinary surgeon. The mentoring offered is invaluable in shaping my future, and I am truly grateful to the Quad-Star team for inviting me into their circle.

Ryan quadstar grantee

Ryan

BRISTOL VET SCHOOL | 2025

I grew up in a rural community surrounded by animals and always wanted to work with them. As the first in my family to attend university, I had no financial safety net.

Before starting at Bristol, I worked as a Health and Safety Officer for Vets4Pets. Inspired by the vets I met, I left a secure career to take an Access to Medicine course, knowing that if I failed, I’d have neither a job nor a university place.

Vet school has brought major challenges. I had to resist part of third year, which was emotionally and financially draining, while also managing anxiety. Money has been the hardest battle – from affording placements to choosing between essential equipment and rent.

The Quadstar Foundation changed everything. Their support lifted the constant financial strain and gave me the security to focus on becoming the best vet I can be. For the first time, I can study without fearing money will end my journey.

As I move through my clinical years, I am more determined than ever to qualify, and one day, I hope to give back by supporting students who, like me, face barriers but refuse to give up.

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Megan

UNIVERSITY OF NOTTINGHAM | 2025

Having previously completed a degree, I am not eligible for a tuition loan, and was therefore faced with huge fees, of which I knew I would struggle to afford. I always planned on pursuing Veterinary Medicine and so during my Veterinary Bioscience degree I balanced  4 part-time jobs on top of a busy university curriculum. Despite my best efforts I still was falling short financially  and felt as though I had exhausted all possible options, that is until I discovered Quadstar. 
 
Gaining a spot to study Veterinary Medicine has been the ultimate lifelong dream of mine, however that is not to say the reality has been without its challenges. I soon realised that in order to succeed in my course, I would not be able to work nearly as much as I had been doing, however this would put me at risk of not being able to pay for my tuition fees.
 
The support that Nick and Michelle have offered me will not only alleviate a very hefty financial burden, but has lifted a rather large weight off my shoulders. I am eternally grateful to Quastar for helping to support me through my veterinary degree, allowing me more time to dedicate to my studies.
raluca quadstar student

Raluca

BRISTOL VET SCHOOL | 2021-2025

…to be a vet since a very young age and although its taken me longer than some people by having to complete a veterinary nursing degree first I have stuck to my determination and am in my last few months of making that dream finally come true.

As the first person in my family to go to University I feel a sense of pride in achieving this goal and have made my family very proud by pushing through all the difficult times and getting to where I am today. I am thrilled to be a part of the quadstar group as they have carefully listened to my recent financial difficulties encountered during my final year at university and were quick to set up meetings and help me through my last few months at university by paying off my remaining fees and taking a weight off my shoulders to not have to work so much and rather focus on enjoying and completing my last few months as a vet student.

I am so grateful to Nick and the foundation for this opportunity.

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Megan

THE NOTHERN BALLET SCHOOL | 2024-2027

…after successfully auditioning and receiving a full DaDA Scholarship.
 
I have just finished sixth form, studying CTECH Diploma in Performing arts and Dance, A level Drama and Theatre Studies and A level Fine Art.
Ever since I could remember I always wanted to dance. Through all the struggles that life has seemed to have thrown at me, dance has been the one thing to allow me to be me! Growing up, the stage, lights, costume, set, movement captivated me.
 
I remember choreographing my own version of the ballet, Cinderella in my living room, hoping to be a dancer one day! The stage and the studios has always been my home. I always wanted to become a Principal Ballerina and I hope to achieve this in the future. After professional training, all I know is that I want to dance. If I could, I would want to do it all- choreography, perform, teach.
 
I would love to tour and perform around the world, and eventually set up my own dance company.
With the help and support from QuadStars I feel that I am one step closer in achieving this goal. Thank you!
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Ismaeel

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL BATH | 2023-2025 QUEEN MARY'S UNIVERSITY AEROSPACE ENGINEERING | 2025 - present

I would say throughout my exams this program has made me feel somewhat relaxed and less stressed because while I thought looking for a sixth form that would accept me would be a headache but through quadstar I’ve found that I’ll have many opportunities I am looking forward to.

I hope quadstar will aid me in my journey to becoming an engineer and I can explore the field and many more to find other hobbies to enjoy! 

Since 2025 studying at Queen Mary’s University Aerospace Engineering.

Quadstar student, educational funding grantee

Moza

PRIOR PARK COLLEGE BATH | 2023-2025 NOW WORKING AT BUCKINGHAM PALACE

I was introduced to Nick through my careers teacher at secondary school and ever since then I would describe my life to have meaning. What I like most about this programme is that it is fitting towards everyone and focuses on getting to know us individually order to help understand what we need to succeed.

it is a pleasure for me to have the opportunity to see the beauties of Bath as I study at Prior Park College but it is also comforting to know that I am given the chance to make a home somewhere.

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Pavishana

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL BATH | 2023 - 2025 | NOW STUDYING PSYCHOLOGY AT UNIVERSITY OF WOLVERHAMPTON

and was able to get the chance to work with Quadstar. I come from Sri Lanka and live with my mum and my 2 brothers.

 
I think having the opportunity to work with quadstar has increased my confidence and also my enthusiasm to work hard and get to were I want to be. I want to be able to become a trauma surgeon and I think this amazing opportunity is going to push me in the correct path to get the best results I possibly can and push myself to be a better version of myself
Max quadstar student

Max

LONDON FILM ACADEMY | 2022-2024 | NOW DEVELOPMENT RESEARCHER AT INITIAL TV

In 2022 I was awarded a half-scholarship to study filmmaking at my dream school – London Film Academy . However, due to living in South Wales, I was unable to secure a student loan for that particular school. I deferred my place , and thanks to Quadstar’s kindness and financial support, I was able to attend a year later. Quadstar has continued to be a lifeline ever since, both professionally and personally.

I currently work as a Junior Development Researcher at Initial TV , where I help develop new ideas for game shows and reality TV programmes!

2026 – Check out Max’s recent comedy sketch on TikTok ( warning some foul language) 

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Wed

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL BATH | 2022-2024
UNIVERSITY OF LIVERPOOL SCHOOL OF MEDICINE | 2025-PRESENT

over 8 years long of trying to get asylum and citizenship.

 
I am now doing my A-Levels (Biology, Chemistry, Math) at Kingswood, hoping to do medicine in University.

For as long as I could remember, I’ve always had a passion for the medical profession, and feeling a need to contribute in any way possible. Ultimately my dream is to be a Cardiac surgeon and work in the Medecins Sans Frontieres.
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Jordan

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL BATH | 2022 - 2024

During secondary school I was given an opportunity to apply for a scholarship system and I was lucky enough to be chosen by Quadstar so that I can continue my studies in an environment where I can grow and learn without any hardships.
 
I aspire to study computer science in university, and I believe that all of this is available to me thanks to the Quadstar foundation.
Quadstar student grants. Student profile for educational funding

Anishia

KINGSWOOD SCHOOL BATH | 2021-2023

During secondary school I was given an opportunity to apply for a scholarship system and I was lucky enough to be chosen by Quadstar so that I can continue my studies in an environment where I can grow and learn without any hardships.
 
I aspire to study computer science in university, and I believe that all of this is available to me thanks to the Quadstar foundation.
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Alicia

BRISTOL VETERINARY SCHOOL | 2021-2026

As second degrees are not funded, I now faced a huge financial barrier. After exhausting all options and the idea of rejecting my place seeming increasingly likely, I then found Quadstar Foundation through Amber’s story.

It is only through Quadstar that I am able to study veterinary medicine and I feel incredibly lucky to have their support. 

I’m not sure what I would like to specialise in just yet but I am thankful that I get the opportunity to continue exploring the various disciplines of veterinary medicine.

Quadstar student. Educational funding for disadvantaged young people. Mentorship

Coby

ATLANTIC COLLEGE WALES | 2021-2023 WHITMAN COLLEGE USA | 2024 - PRESENT

I received my IB diploma in 2023 and earned a place at Whitman College in Washington, USA. I have completed my first year of an Economics-Mathematics degree and I am now looking forward to the future.

Quadstar nourished and enhanced my belief in myself and I believe I will achieve much more success now that I have their ongoing support in my life. Thanks Quadstar!

 
I aspire to study computer science in university, and I believe that all of this is available to me thanks to the Quadstar foundation.
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Amber

KEELE/HARPER ADAMS VET SCHOOL | 2021 - 2026

and individuals facing systemic barriers, contributing to a profession that reflects society’s diversity.

Quadstar has not only supported me financially but also provided a vital support network and mentoring. This personalized support has allowed me to thrive in my chosen career path without external worries impacting my success. I’m forever grateful for their help.

Quadstar’s generosity has inspired me to pay it forward and support other students in my career and beyond. I aspire to work in mixed practice, addressing diverse veterinary challenges, and eventually specialize in areas like cattle management, emergency/ICU, and internal medicine.

Quadstar student educational grants

Salehah

KINGS COLLEGE LONDON | 2020 - 2023
NOW WORKING FOR CANCER RESEARCH UK | 2025

Through their generous financial assistance and unwavering encouragement, I had the opportunity to pursue a Honours degree at King’s College London however my aspirations do not stop there. With a strong desire to expand my skills and knowledge, I am determined to carve a path in the tech world. Quadstar’s continued support, both emotionally and mentally, has fuelled my drive to explore new avenues and pursue a career that combines my passion for technology and research. As a testament to their unwavering belief in me, I am thrilled to announce that I have recently secured a graduate job with Cancer Research UK as an Accelerate Scheme Trainee, where I will have the chance to delve into the fascinating intersection of technology and cancer research. Quadstar’s unwavering support has been invaluable in my journey towards achieving my goals, and I am deeply grateful for their belief in my potential.

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Tasin

DULWICH BOYS COLLEGE | 2019-2021 TRINITY COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE ENGINEERING 2021 - 2025 NOW WORKING FOR iNETIC LTD IN ANDOVER

Prior to this, I studied Mathematics, Further Mathematics, Physics and Chemistry at Dulwich college – which was an immense opportunity supported by Quadstar. Alongside this, their mentoring guided me along the way with University applications, and advice which encouraged me towards my aspirations of studying Engineering at Oxbridge.

I look forward to the future, where I hope to pursue a phD in the fields of electronics or biomimetics; while stepping out and broadening my horizons in a University abroad. Following this, I’d love continuing to enhance my passion for cars, by entering into the motorsport industry.

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Martha

ATLANTIC COLLEGE | ST DONATS | 2017 - 2019 CONNECTICUT COLLEGE USA | COMPUTER SCIENCE & ECONIMICS | 2019 - 2023

Martha was selected through the Kenyan UWC Committee as an outstanding and exceptionally-deserving candidate from many applications received from further countries in Africa and the Far East. 

Martha successfully completed the AC IB Course and secured a full scholarship at Connecticut College in the US.