Jaden has always had a passion for mechanics and transport, in particular buses and trains, and this has inspired his dream to play a part in shaping the future of mechanical engineering and design.

At the age of 4, Jaden was diagnosed with Autism which has affected his educational journey. At school, his favourite subjects were maths, science and design & technology, and after his GCSEs, he completed a 2-year BTEC course in Engineering and achieved a triple distinction.

He attended a traditional university for a year but did not feel comfortable in that environment and decide to look around for alternative options online. He discovered The Open University which meant he could complete this qualification while still living at home in an environment he felt comfortable in.

“And best of all,” explained Jaden,” the Open Futures Black Students Scholarships Fund would allow me to study for free if my application was successful – and remove the barriers that were currently in front of me. It would allow me to pursue my dreams.

“I was elated when I found out that I had a place on my chosen course of Engineering, but I was also nervous to start with as I didn’t know what to expect!

“It is very important to me to have flexible education as I can study at whatever time is convenient for me, and I don’t feel the pressure of having to study at a certain time as I know I can access course materials and tutorials online at any time.

“Studying at the OU has allowed me to get into the habit of studying independently. One of the things I have been taught is to make a study plan to easily manage my study time, break times and family time.”

Jaden’s dream is to complete his degree and find a job in mechanical or design engineering – ideally in the transport industry.

Jaden is kindly supported by Spirax Sarco