retaking A Levels

[roseability]

Hi there I am 30 and have two young children. I would dearly love to retake my English Literature A Level

I only obtained a grade D at shool even though I was predicted an A, and was set to study it at University. I ended up doing a Nursing degree and although I got a first, I am beginning to realise I am not really passionate and may have chosen the wrong career.

I don't want to make any big commitments, my DC are only 4 and 9 months but I could study at home. Eventually I would consider trying to do an English degree like I always wanted to. I am still so passionate about literature and although a lot of people have said it, I believe my original paper was marked wrongly.

How can I retake it even though I live in Scotland where the education system is Highers? Are any of the online/distance learning courses decent? Would they be recognised by universities?

If your ambition is to do get to university, you might consider doing an access course at a college - they are designed for mature adults and universities look favourably at them. It also gives you a confidence boost ready for studying. Don't worry about the kids and time etc. Having an outside interest that is fulfilling may put a bit of pressure on your time, but in the long run it will be definitely worth it. Good luck

Why not go straight to an OU degree?

Because you're over 21 you are classed as a mature student and will in many cases no longer need to fulfill the exact academic criteria that an 18 year old would. Why not give the faculty at your chosen uni a bell and see if you can talk to someone about it? It may be for example that they would ask you to provide an essay on a given works perhaps to show that you are able.

Good luck!