Adult Learners

Sue Fowler, 25

A Levels: Physics, Chemistry and Biology
Blossomfield Campus

“I chose Solihull College for its excellent reputation and its convenient location and throughout my course I’ve made lots of friends from different backgrounds. The tutors have also been excellent and overall my experience has been an academically and socially stimulating one.

I’m aiming to work within the veterinary industry and have been accepted onto the Veterinary Medicine course at Bristol University where I’d like to specialise in either small animals or equine studies. I am now thinking about the possibilities of training to teach future veterinary students further on in my career.”

Debbie Gibbins, 40
Foundation Degree in Early Years
Blossomfield Campus

Studying the Foundation Degree has enabled Debbie to continue to work with children whilst developing her existing knowledge and skills. As a single parent, Debbie wanted somewhere that was local but would still offer high quality, university level education.

“The prospect of returning to education was daunting; however once on the course I found that I was in the same boat as my fellow students. Everyone had similar skills and ambitions, which created a comfortable atmosphere for us to learn and overcome challenges together.

The constant support from the tutors makes you believe in your potential to succeed.

The course has given me the confidence and motivation to continue my education further.

Since completing my Foundation Degree, I have been offered places at Solihull College and Birmingham City University for the full honours degree. Because I’ve had such a positive learning experience here, Solihull College seems to be the obvious choice.”

John Saunders, 30
Access to Higher Education
Woodlands Campus

John has recently completed an Access to Higher Education course at the Woodlands Campus and is now looking forward to going to Birmingham City University to complete his Qualified Teacher Status course this September.

“The course is fantastic. Coming from no education, with people constantly putting me down, this course has helped me to rebuild my confidence, and for me to do this well reflects just how brilliant the course is. It’s the best thing I’ve ever done apart from getting married and having children.

I am looking forward to my primary teacher training degree at Birmingham City university.”

Joan Pugh, 49
HND Advanced Practice in Working with Children and Families
Blossomfield Campus

“I was looking to get back into education and found the course leaflets from Solihull College whilst browsing in the library. They were informative and encouraging and even better than that, offered courses in the area I've always wanted to work in.

“The best part of my course is knowing that I am working towards a valuable qualification that will enable me to embark on a career in working with children – as they say its better late than never and I am now in a place where I am fully committed to bringing this ambition to life. I am even thinking of continuing after my HND to convert my qualification into a BA (Hons) degree.

“The course has been a fantastic experience, I have made a lot of friends who I hope I'll remain in touch with. They have provided a lot of support alongside what the tutors provide – I wouldn't change my experiences here for the world!”

Peter J Collins, 28
Foundation Degree: Business and I.T.
Blossomfield Campus

"Solihull College presented me with a double incentive for me to re-enter education - they offer a course that will progress my career, and the College is practically on my doorstep!

“The course has been uplifting with its relevance to my career – my skills have improved no end and I have really enjoyed the practical modules such as internet design and computer programming.

These modules in particular have enlightened me on how systems work together and have opened new doors to me with regard to future careers. So much so, that I have already been promoted within my present company which has inspired me to look at additional courses once I finish this one.

I have very much enjoyed studying within Solihull College’s environment – it’s comfortable, proactive and the teaching faculty are always helpful. I’ll definitely look to the College again when I research additional qualifications.”

Darren Gravell, 23
Foundation Degree: Early Years (Voted Student of the Year 2008)
Blossomfield Campus

After successfully completing this course, Darren gained employment and jumped at the chance to study a Foundation Degree in Early Years to continue his professional development back at the college.

“I chose to continue my education at Solihull College after having such a good time here on my F.E course. The teaching on the BTEC National Diploma in Childcare, Learning and Development was so good that it was natural for me to progress in the subject within the same environment.

“The course was a great environment as we all had a passion for providing quality childcare and we increased each other’s perceptions of good practice as we all had varying ideas of how to go about things. The variety of settings together with so many different perspectives thrown into the mix is what made the course so good – we learnt from each other as well as from the course directly.

“I am, perhaps, a slightly more unusual sighting on a childcare course but there really is no reason why more men shouldn’t be interested in this industry - it’s an important sector that can be incredibly rewarding and I really enjoy working with children. Our first years are where our learning journey starts so the Early Years industry should be appreciated for the hard work it contributes to children’s learning journeys.”

Looking forward Darren is thinking of continuing to a BA Hons degree in Early Childhood Studies with a view to gaining a PGCE in Early Years and even going as far as a Masters Degree in Education at some point in the future.

“The excellent teaching and facilities at Solihull College are what made me want to stay on after further education and I wouldn’t hesitate in continuing to study here in the future. In my opinion Solihull College is the best college to study at.”

Caroline Pigden, 39
Fine Art Degree (Honours)
Blossomfield Campus

“I have had a very rewarding experience on the BA (Hons) Fine Art Degree Course. Through the commitment and dedication of the staff and a relaxed and friendly environment, my creative skills have had room to breathe and develop.”

Like many other university level students, Caroline took advantage of the lower course fees that Solihull College offers as opposed to the more expensive top-up fees being charged by universities.

Caroline, is going onto study a Masters Degree At Birmingham City University this September. Birmingham City University is one of the many universities that validate our Higher Education qualifications.

Tracey Rafe
Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD): Professional Development scheme
Blossomfield Campus

“I felt my lack of specific professional HR qualifications were holding me back career-wise, so it was recommended to me that I enrolled on this course. Initially, I found it difficult to juggle my demanding job with course work and exams, but I soon adapted to the extra pressure. The tutors at Solihull College were really on the ball and supportive and the knowledge and skills I acquired on the course were extremely helpful in the workplace.”

Tracey completed the course and became a Graduate Member of CIPD and, following this, joined a new company as HR Development Manager, where she was later promoted to the position to the position of HR Director.

“Without a doubt, I would not have experienced the career success I have, without my studies at Solihull College. My job is extremely demanding, but I love it.”

Tracey is now in the process of setting up her own Development and HR consultancy, Forward Development.