Higher Education students smile

Higher Education Students reflect on their Degree success

31 October 2017

With the development of the University Centre Rotherham (UCR) well underway and the recent celebration and graduation of Rotherham College, Dearne Valley College and North Notts College students, the opportunity was taken to ask recent graduates about how their Degree has shaped their plans for the future.

BSc Computing and Systems Development student, Zack Friel celebrated his graduation and at the same time was awarded the Outstanding Award for his remarkable efforts and dedication towards both his education and the institution. During Zack’s studies he secured a temporary position as Digital Marketing Officer which became a permanent full-time position.

Zack commented, “Without the course I would not have had the confidence to apply for a job like this and I would recommend studying a Degree to anyone to pursue the career they want. Places like Rotherham College and the new University Centre Rotherham (UCR) will definitely be of interest to people who are also wanting the opportunity to study close to home.”

The development of UCR alongside the Higher Education provision from all three colleges within RNN Group, will mean that local students are able to study a variety of courses from the Arts to Business Enterprise. Students currently studying or looking to study at the colleges are also having the opportunity to stay on and study Degrees in a university setting.

The Colleges in RNN Group are recognised for their TEF (Teaching Excellence Framework) silver rating, meaning tutors and lecturers across the group will continue to deliver high quality learning and outcomes for their students.

Amy Rydelewski has been a student at Rotherham College from starting a Level 3 course in Performing Arts. Amy has since then completed a Degree in Acting and Performance as well as a PGCE with Rotherham College, resulting in an award for her outstanding efforts and dedication to her studies.

After completing her Degree, Amy now works as a Drama Tutor and Production Manager at three separate theatre companies. Amy said, “Offering Degree courses in the Rotherham area will in turn bring more people into the town centre and give Rotherham a boost in life that it needs to be the great town centre it once was. When I started my journey I was fixated on being a teacher, but now I am self-employed with three current contracts and I feel as though I am now working towards my career goal.”

BSc Sport Science student and graduation award winner Shannon Marshall, studied a Level Three Extended Diploma in Sport at Dearne Valley College before completing her Degree and now works as a sports coach. Shannon said, “The support that I received from tutors was exceptional and studying a Degree allowed me to explore different career paths and gain the relevant experience in the industry I was interested in.”

If you are looking to learn more about University Centre Rotherham and the opportunity to study Degrees locally, visit https://www.rotherham.ac.uk/higher-education/university-centre/ or come along to one of our open events at Rotherham College, North Notts College or Dearne Valley College.

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