Libby Hetherington

After a skiing accident aged 12 which left her needing ongoing physical therapy, 18-year-old Libby Hetherington from Yarm was inspired to follow in the footsteps of those who helped with her recovery.

The Sport and Exercise Science student achieved a Triple Distinction Star and secured a top spot at Teesside University to study Sport Therapy and Rehabilitation.

She said: “I’m so proud to have achieved the highest grade possible. Even though I worked incredibly hard, I wasn’t expecting it at all.

“Studying throughout the pandemic has been tough at times but my tutors have been great – they’ve been incredibly supportive, and I couldn’t have done it without them.”

With big ambitions, Libby hopes to one day own her own practice and added: “Ever since my accident, I’ve always been inspired to help others and I’m so excited to go to university and take the next steps towards my dream career.”

Course: Level 3 Sport and Exercise Science