TNC collections University Debt

MJPerman

Hi,

I had university debt from back in 2006 as I didn't cope with payments and as a result wasn't issued a degree although i have completed all of my assignments. This eventually was submitted to debt collection agency TNC Collections, who chased me real bad for a year until I return back home.

It's now been 9 years and in the hope to see it written off by now i got in touch with my Uni who referred me to the TNC with reference number. I was told that my account will stay blocked until I settle arrears in full. After which then i decided to get in touch with TNC hoping they have taken me off their books, but of course not. The outstanding amount is now staggering $6.4k - I have no such cash. It was my innocent call to find out the sum and slowly work out a payment plan to eventually pay it off so i can finally claim my degree. But the agent on the phone demanded 50% payment right away at which point I informed that i didn't have that much money and hang up in horror. He somehow recorded my work phone and now threatening to chase on that number. Work phone is normally anonymised, but somehow it came up on their screen, i knew it after they called me right back. I work outside of UK and can somehow ignore it, although would probably have nightmares. It's however embarrasing to be receiving calls from TNC at my work.
Please can you advise on two things:

1. What is the write off period for debts in my situation.
2. Is there anyway i can reduce the debt so i can pay it off by small pieces.

Your response is much appreciated.

Thank you,
Perman