Fantastic Vocational Results

Our Level 3 Vocational Programme students achieved an amazing 274 Triple Distinctions on the National Diploma courses in 2011 – nearly one hundred more than the previous year! A triple distinction is the highest grade achievable and the equivalent to 3 As at A Level.

The students studying Sport and Exercise Science were successful with 34 out of 38 achieving this high grade, whilst there was a massive 49 out of 65 students studying Level 3 Uniformed Public Services gaining these distinctions.

Many students progressed onto university or employment. Sarah Fisher, one of 13 students who achieved a triple distinction in Art and Design says: “I chose this course because I was unsure which area of design I wanted to have a career in, so this course allowed me to study different areas of art and design to see what I was interested in. I loved the freedom on the course where you can interpret the brief you are given. You have a lot more freedom at college than at school. The tutors were friendly and helped me to improve my ideas. They were always there if you needed help." Sarah went to Huddersfield University to study Interior Design and her College course helped her make the decision.

The Performing Arts courses were also highly successful. On the Acting course 14 out of 20 triple distinctions were achieved, with Musical Theatre achieving 19 out of 28 and the Production Arts course 3 out of 8. Many of the students have since progressed to further their careers in the performing arts by studying at university or drama school, including East 15 and Trinity College, Carmarthen.

Lauren Beadle achieved her triple distinction in Hospitality Supervision, a course with 100% achievement, all of which were triple distinctions. She says of her time at college: “My experience was a complete change from school. It allowed me to be more independent and make my own choices. The tutors were very helpful in the decisions I made, offering help and support." Lauren now studies Events Management at university.

Other areas where students were highly successful in achieving triple distinctions: 3D Design Crafts, Fashion and Clothing, Graphic Design, Music Technology, Media, Engineering, Science, Construction, Childcare, Travel and Tourism, Health and Social Care, Sport, IT and Business Studies.

On Level 1 and Level 2 programmes achievement was high with 97% of students succeeding on their chosen courses.

The Level 1 and Level 2 courses provide the qualifications and skills enabling students to pursue their aspirations either in the workplace or by studying further qualifications at College. Aaron Camp, who gained his Level 2 Certificate in Motor Vehicle and Repair, said: “I chose the course because I always had an interest in Mechanics and went to a garage on work experience. I liked the depth the course went into and the tasks we did. I also enjoyed the atmosphere in the classroom. I really enjoyed my experiences at College and made some good friends. The tutors were always helpful and I really enjoyed the workshop lessons. I want to join the RAF and become a qualified aeroplane technician, if I cannot do this I will come back to College to study fabrication or engineering to enhance my abilities and keep pursuing a career in the RAF.”