I've been thinking about it for 10 years. I've had acupuncture on and off for 20 years and every time it worked wonders for me. I'm absolutely certain that this treatment can help people much better than conventional western medicine.
I'd love to retrain and establish myself so I can choose my hours and carry on working in my 60s and 70s if needed. I'm a teacher and can't see myself carrying on with the job in my 60s (retirement age will be 68 for me).
I'm now 46 with two children aged 4 and 8. The degree will cost me about £20 000 over 3 years. I've got £5000 saved for this but it's becoming a "rainy day " pot as the cost of living is biting more and more.
The shortfall is huge. I can't save much right now as everything is costing us more.
I thought about a loan but I'm not sure. We might remortgage to buy a new car (mine's is 15 years old and has had it) and finish off a small extension to give us a bit more room for a proper entrance lobby. I'm not sure we could stretch to adding another 10k for the degree fees.
I'd also have to travel to London twice a week to attend practical lectures. That's another cost to factor in.
Student loans are not possible for this course unfortunately.
Realistically, I'd be able to work 2 days a week but I'd have to keep a day free to study (recommended studying time is about 10 to 15 hours a week).
I feel as if I'd be just able to do this if I didn't have to worry about the financial aspect of the course.
It'd be a huge commitment but I'll regret it forever if I don't do it now.
Any ideas on how I could fund this course? I thought about grants but there are not many which seem to fit my situation.
Family can't help. My wages won't increase more. My children will carry on costing me more and more.
Giving up is not an option. It's been my light at the end of the tunnel for years now.