"“At first I wanted to be an interior designer, and this course seemed the best way to start that career. However, a year in I discovered my passion for SFX makeup and was able to study it as a specialist module. This course gave me the skills, knowledge and confidence not only in SFX makeup but across all areas of art and design — that’s the beauty of it, you learn so much and gain skills for so many creative careers. I’d say go for it! Art and Design is so vast, from photography and fine art to architecture, computer design, lino printing and more. I had the best few years at Grantham College; it was such a welcoming place and my tutors in the art and design building were so encouraging and supportive. As cheesy as it sounds, believe in yourself — all the hard work and stress are worth it. I don’t feel like I work because I love my job, and that makes it all so worthwhile."

"I completed my T Level in Education and Childcare in 2024 after two years of hands-on learning. During my placement in a local primary school, I gained so much experience that the headteacher invited me to apply for a permanent role — and I soon became a full-time member of staff. While working there, I led SEND morning provision, supported pupils 1:1, helped plan lessons, and even led Forest School and cooking sessions. These real-world experiences gave me the confidence and skills I now use every day. After a year and a half working in the sector, I’m now studying Primary Education with QTS at university. Thanks to my T Level, I already have a strong foundation in classroom practice and child development, so I can focus on developing my teaching skills even further."

"I completed the Access to HE (Humanities & Social Science) Diploma in June 2019 and it was the stepping stone needed to go from being away from education for more than 20 years to starting a history degree in September 2019. The Access Diploma gave me the foundation needed to step back into studying, helping me to plan and organise my time around two children and deadlines as well as integrating me into a classroom and learning environment. My three years at Nottingham Trent University was fantastic (despite the Covid pandemic!) particularly being immersed in a subject I love, with lecturers who were experts in their fields of study. I studied aspects of history that I would never have thought I would be interested in but it gave me a deep appreciation for research and discourse. Next year I have been accepted onto the MA course for history, so I am looking forward to continuing my intellectual journey. Ultimately, I would like to work within a museum or an historic environment passing on my enthusiasm to others."

"Hairdressing wasn’t something I wanted to do from the beginning. I started working for Scots Hair Design on Saturdays and decided I really enjoyed it. This then gave me the opportunity to start an apprenticeship with them, so I could progress in my career and gain a qualification at the same time. I would really recommend this course to other students. You have to be ready to work hard, stand for long periods at a time and work long hours, but the end result is worth it. I am looking forward to progressing to the Level 3, my future aspirations would be to do session work at shows at events such as London Fashion Week."