Student Success

I am very inspired by winning the award, and am grateful for the college for the achievement. I chose to study T levels, as its academic and work placement based, as when I get to uni a large proportion is communication is a massive barrier, Booksmart is important but so is communication. I am a hands on learner, so having both the academic and work experience was ideal for me.

I’m 18 and from Sudan. I’m an ESOL student and I enjoy the lessons as well as college life. I didn’t speak much English when I joined. I’m going to carry on studying English, and I’ve made lots of friends.

I am really excited to win the award. The course is absolutely amazing, and the sense of community is wonderful. I now work at a nursery, and the course has 100% prepared me with all the skills I need for working in the sector.

I studied Level 1 Media. I really wanted to be creative and make short films. I really enjoyed the course, it was great fun. I’d tell other people to jump at the opportunity of doing this course.

I’m 18 and completed the T Level in Business. I loved the work experience aspect which meant learning the technical knowledge of management and then applying it at the Holiday Inn in Southend. Choosing a T Level instead of A levels means you get work experience and a newer qualification that employers really like.

I have really bad anxiety, and this course helped me overcome it. I’m not very academic, so the practical learning and hands‑on experience such as being on reception and opening beauty treatments to the public showed me a different side of learning that I loved. My favourite part of the course was massage; I loved body massage and learning all the new techniques. My greatest achievement is sticking to it and finishing the three years without giving up. I would definitely recommend the college.

I was nervous and shocked to win! I loved the friendships and the teachers, as well as the learning. There were so many things to enjoy. The course taught me a lot, and I’m moving to degree level next year.

I am very proud of myself and can’t believe I won and now have a job as an apprentice at Essex County Council!