From Doubter to Doctor: Connah’s Quay Woman’s 10-Year Journey from A Levels to PhD

A woman who left school at 16 convinced that education wasn’t for her has earned a PhD — capping a remarkable decade-long journey that started with a leap of faith at Coleg Cambria.

Dr Ellie Moore grew up in Connah’s Quay and went straight into work after finishing high school, with university the furthest thing from her mind. Three years later, something shifted. At 19, she walked through the doors of Coleg Cambria’s Deeside Sixth Form Centre and signed up for A Levels in Sociology, English Literature and Physical Education, alongside the Welsh Baccalaureate.

“I was really wary about going back into education after a few years out,” said Ellie. “But from the very start, Coleg Cambria built my confidence. I loved every second of it and it completely changed how I saw myself and what I thought was possible.”

With the backing of lecturers and support staff — and after resitting some GCSEs along the way — Ellie’s ambitions began to grow. It was her tutors who first planted the idea of applying to university.

“They were the ones who encouraged me to apply to university,” she said. “That honestly shocked me at first, but they believed in me, and so did my family.”

She went on to study Sociology at the University of Birmingham, an experience she describes as “life-changing”, before completing a Master’s degree at the University of Sheffield. After a period in full-time work, a tip-off from a former lecturer led her to a PhD opportunity at Loughborough University.

“I never, ever thought I would go to university,” she said. “I was so proud of myself, and my family were incredibly proud too. That’s where I really got the learning bug.”

Her doctoral research examined sobriety among university students — exploring how those who don’t drink navigate campus life, build friendships, and what universities can do to create more inclusive social and learning environments less centred around alcohol.

Now Dr Moore, Ellie reflects on the mindset that carried her through.

“I broke it all down into chunks — week by week, year by year — that’s how I did it,” she said. “Coleg Cambria laid the foundations for this chapter of my life, and with the right support and the right people behind you, you really can achieve anything.”

Having completed her doctorate over Christmas, Dr Moore is now pursuing opportunities in higher education and research, including roles as a research fellow, coordinator and research associate.

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