University Level Learners

Just one week after completing his course, he was snapped up by Birmingham based advertising and design agency, KLM after bosses saw his work on display at the College’s end of year Graphic Design Exhibition.

"I didn’t think I’d get the chance to start in my chosen career so soon after finishing college. My HND really prepared me for my new role and I’m enjoying putting the skills I’ve learnt into practise. I’m also able to learn from my colleagues who have extensive industry experience which is great and I’m really looking forward to progressing in the industry."

“I always knew that teaching marketing was my ultimate career goal but whilst I had the relevant experience, I lacked the teaching knowledge so I started to look into part-time study. As an adult learner, I was apprehensive about returning to education but I found the level of teaching provided by tutors and the support offered was exactly right for my needs. The College makes it very easy for learners in full-time employment by offering a number of flexible study options.”

At our 2010 Graduation, Chris was awarded the Barbara Sloan Award in recognition of his determination, effort and personal development during his time with us.

“One of the great things about studying whilst working in the industry is that I could relate the subjects I was learning at College to my actual job and incorporate assignments into my day-to-day tasks. I was anxious at first about how I would find time to do my college work but I found a way to break down each assignment into realistic chunks which I could target myself to complete – on occasions when I was travelling with work I’d even allocate time to study in my hotel room.

I already have a great feeling of accomplishment after completing my HNC and have been inspired to continue my professional and personal development even further by taking the next step onto the Foundation Degree. My Higher Education qualification has given me the confidence to progress in my career and take on opportunities that are presented to me."

She achieved her First Diploma and went onto study the Level 3 National Diploma in Animal Management. During this time, she worked as an Animal Technician in the centre every other weekend and during the summer holidays.

In September 2008 she enrolled onto the HND in Animal Management. During her first year she was made an official member of staf in the animal care centre to cover maternity leave. In her second year, Amanda was appointed as a permanent Animal Technician, a position which she still holds. Amanda successfully completed her HND this summer with solid merit and distinctions.

“I’d always known that I wanted to work with animals and my HND has confirmed that even more. I chose Solihull College as it allowed me to study in a friendly and happy environment which I loved and I could remain living at home. I really enjoyed all aspects of the course, it was really hands on and has definitely equipped me with the skills required to work in the industry. I especially liked the field trip to Tenerife where I got the chance to work with Bottlenose Dolphins and Pilot Whales.”

In order to compete for major engineering roles, he required a UK recognised qualification so he chose Solihull College to complete his HNC in Electrical and Electronic Engineering.

“The course was very well organised. The library and facilities provided great access to a range of learning resources such as the internet and text books to help with, coursework. During the course, I particularly liked the Maths, Project and Electronic units. The highly experienced tutors, excellent facilities and the College’s friendly atmosphere all came together to make a perfect learning experience. I intend to further my knowledge of digitally operated computing systems before embarking on employment within electrical maintenance.”

“I chose Solihull College to study Higher Education not only because it was close to home, but also because I was assured that I’d get all the support I needed throughout my studies, and I did. The course was challenging at times but the tutors are so approachable and would always be on hand to help if I needed it. I studied hard and worked minimum hours in my part-time job to ensure that I got the grades I knew I was capable of achieving and I’m so glad it paid off. Not only has this course given me a university level qualification, but it’s also improved my self management, organisation and awareness skills which are highly sought after by employers. My career goal is to be successful in a senior HR role and I’m looking forward to starting my MA in International HR next year.”

He successfully completed this course and went on to study the AVCE ICT (Double Award) ICT and in 2007 he completed his HND in Computing. Realising that a Foundation Degree would provide hands-on practical work experience as well as furthering his computing skills Jayesh enrolled onto the Foundation Degree in Business Information Technology. After graduating from Solihull College this year, he is now enjoying his final year of the BSC Hons Business Information Technology Degree at Coventry University. Long-term he is aspiring to work within the business sector.

“The best part of the course was the chance to further my knowledge about the many different ways that IT can be used within business. During my Foundation Degree, I was also offered help with CV writing to maximise my employment opportunities once I’d finished the course.”

June embarked on the Certificate in English Language Teaching to Adults (CELTA) offered at Solihull College.

“The CELTA course was offered on a choice of days so I was able to fit my study around other activities and commitments. The College is easily accessible by road or rail which made it even more desirable. The support and encouragement from the staff and fellow students was outstanding. My goal was to complete the course and find part-time employment – I am now assisting in ESOL classes at Solihull College and teaching some Functional Skills. As a mature student, this course has given me a new lease of life. I wasn’t ever made to feel that I was too old to start a new career.“

She successfully completed her HND in Sport and Exercise Science with us and then went on to do her final year Top-Up Degree at Gloucestershire University. It was during her time at Gloucestershire that Alex returned to Solihull College on a work placement as part of her university course. One year on and Alex is still with the College enjoying a permanent position as a Sports Tutor.

“I’d always loved doing PE at school but unfortunately there wasn’t much opportunity for me to continue my interest when I left. When I had my daughter, I decided that I didn’t want to return to working unsociable hours in my demanding retail management role so I visited a Solihull College open day to explore my options.

When I heard about the HND in Sport and Exercise I knew it would be perfect for me and I was right. It was a really hands on course and gave me the essential skills I needed to pursue a career in sport. I’m really enjoying my role as Sport Tutor and genuinely believe I have found my niche in life. Without a shadow of a doubt, if it wasn’t for my Higher Education I would not have found my dream job.”

Being close to home she was able to access the college facilities on the evenings after work and even at the weekend. Spending a couple of hours researching in the library or in the open access suite Helen easily fitted her studies around her work and family life. She successfully completed the course and graduated from Oxford Brookes University this year. Helen says:

“For several years I thought about enrolling on the Foundation Degree course but always found a reason not to. Returning to education after so many years was a daunting prospect. However as soon as I got started I wish I’d done it sooner. It’s been hard work but the tutors have been supportive and inspiring every step of the way.”

Throughout her studies Helen was supported by her Class teacher, Sian Davies. Sian is the Foundation Stage Leader at Peterbrook Primary School.

“Helen was a very good Teaching Assistant and we always felt fortunate to have her with us but the additional training she has done has certainly furthered her knowledge even more. It’s given her a deeper understanding of the role of a teacher and the hidden aspects of the job which is great as often people don’t realise just how demanding the role can actually be.”