I'll start by introducing myself, my name is Diane Laidlaw, I am a mature student studying for a foundation degree in Costume Construction for Stage and Screen at Cleveland College of Art and Design (CCAD) in Hartlepool in the North East of England. This is a small specialist Art and design college with sites in both Middlesbrough (Further Education) and Hartlepool (Higher Education). At 53 following a career in nursing and care work I have decided it is time for a complete change and I am ready for the challenge of returning to education and gaining a degree.