Part-time courses can be many things to different people. See what our students have to say about their learning experiences and how a course has helped them towards their goals.

Esther Tombs Floristry Advanced National Certificate - Level 3

I was getting older and wanted to get a move on with my life and set a good example for my daughter. The course has given me more confidence and introduced me to new experiences. Going to Chelsea flower show is something I would never have done on my own, but going with the College was great. Not only have I learnt some great techniques, I have also met some fantastic people which has added to my college experience. I am now working in a local florist and feel so much happier doing something I enjoy.

Lorna Woodhouse Access to HE Diploma

I'm a lot more confident both academically and socially. Coming to college made me realise I can do a lot more with my life. All my tutors have been really supportive and encouraging. It really helped that I wasn't just thrown back into the deep end. I'm much more confident with essay writing and now I have my GCSE in Maths and English. After a while, I was encouraged to apply to university and get a job in the care environment. I have been working in the nursing home for a year now and will be starting University in September on the Advanced Diploma in Nursing.

Deborah Walker Food Preparation and Cooking NVQ Level 1

I wanted to do something that I enjoyed and that also fitted around looking after our children. The course has helped my confidence and I'm learning more about food. The staff are really supportive and I get on great with other students. I want to go onto level 2 and level 3. My aim is to get onto a patisserie course.

Yelena Fearnley Food Preparation and Cooking NVQ Level 1

I did this course as I wanted to learn as much as possible about the catering business so that someday I will be able to open my own bistro. It’s great because I’ve been given valuable knowledge that I would not have had otherwise. I have learned much more about not only cooking but also legislation. I've found the staff to be brilliant and I've gained much more confidence. It really is a good atmosphere. I would say that I am definitely going in the right direction. There is still a lot to know but it's a good start.

Laura Holbrook Distance Learning

I started doing distance learning through work. It's helped me get the qualifications I need to support my job and has provided me with the opportunity to work my way up. Doing these courses has really opened up my knowledge in areas like MRSA and Dementia. I study in my spare time at home and around work. I often speak on the phone to my tutor. She's great and has given a lot of help and support. Distance learning is great for those who can't afford to go to college and is good for those with children. They are good courses to take up and the certificates you get are recognised by the NHS.

James Ridgway Maintenance and Repair in Motor Vehicle Level 3

Advanced Apprenticeship

I wanted to take the course to help with our family business. Since starting I have been given more responsibility, more money and I feel more confident when I’m left to run the garage. From coming to college my skills have developed. I can now take on bigger projects like stripping engines and gear boxes. The motor vehicle museum trip with the College helped me understand the background to the industry. It was great to see the very first cars ever made. My aim is to live in New Zealand so I am trying to build up my qualifications to help me get there.

Gill Hutchesson BA (Hons) Degree in Education and Training

My aim from taking this course was to update my education and refresh my skills. There were times when it was difficult, but the tutors were very supportive and kept telling me that I had the potential and to never give up. The cherry on the cake was getting my job and I am now a full time lecturer in childcare. My advice to people would be to just try it and don't be afraid. I've been given an air of confidence and I now find it much easier to stand in front of others to help them with their learning. I may even want to continue my education. I've got the bug now and it gives me a real buzz.