'An inspiration to anyone'

Bedford College student Simon Whitworth has gained a professional qualification to become a fitness instructor - despite being in a wheelchair.

Simon was paralysed from the chest down following a diving accident at Robinson Pool in Bedford. He was rehearsing for a swimming gala in his spare time, but also worked at the pool as a lifeguard. That was seven years ago when he was just 19 and had his whole life ahead of him. Immediately after the accident it was not clear if he would live. He did, and following a year in rehab at the National Spinal Centre at Stoke Mandeville, has gone on to lead an independent life with his own home in Clapham – and now he hopes to get back to work.

Gaining this qualification has been made possible by lecturers at Bedford College who welcomed Simon when he approached them asking if they could help him get his career back on track. Staff member Mick Rae made special arrangements to enable Simon to attend the classes on a Monday evening at the Bedford College SPRINGS sports centre and, with the support of assessor Sian Kensell, he has taken his final examination and gained his CYQ (Central YMCA Qualification) Level 2 certification – qualifying him to be a fitness instructor.

Whereas normally a student in the examination would demonstrate moves, Simon was allowed to give verbal instructions to show he knew all the right moves.

Simon, now 26, said: “I am hoping now someone will give me the chance to prove what I can do with some work experience, or voluntary work, which will enable me to get back to some sort of employment in the future.”

Said Mick: “It is unusual but Simon has shown it is not impossible. He had been an athlete before the accident, and now he has the qualification to encourage others. He is an inspiration to anyone.”

Simon’s mum Yvonne said : “Bedford College has given Simon the opportunity, despite his disability, to achieve one of the ambitions he had prior to his accident.

“Simon is a tetraplegic, but the label and the wheelchair have not stopped him rising to a tremendous challenge. We are very grateful to Bedford College.”

Deputy Principal of Bedford College Dave Pridmore said : “I am very proud that our staff have shown that this is what we are here for at Bedford College - to help people overcome whatever difficulties they face and access education and training. We are very proud to have been able to help Simon.”