“The BTEC Extended Diploma in Construction really prepared me well for studying Architecture at university and I would recommend this option for anyone interested in the pursuing a professional career in the construction sector.
With 10 GSCEs under her belt, Lizzie went back to school with the intention of doing A levels in Art, Technology, Biology and Maths but left school before sitting the exams.
“I enjoyed the A level subjects I had selected but I realised that they would never give me the same in-depth knowledge and insight into the construction industry as the Level 3 Diploma. Construction is very specialised, so the Level 3 course gave me a solid foundation and it was a great preparation for going on to study architecture at university.”
While she was still at school, Lizzie took part in the Queen’s University Pathway Opportunity, a one year ‘taster’ programme of workshops and events, coursework and summer school. She selected the Civil Engineering Pathway and this strengthened her resolve to work in the construction sector.
When Lizzie completes her degree later this year, she plans on doing an industrial placement year and, once that is completed, study for a MArch degree.
Inspired by the work of Kengo Kuma, an internationally acclaimed Japanese architect and leading exponent of sustainable architecture renowned for his use of wood and other natural materials, Lizzie’s dream is to qualify as an architect and, like her hero, work on the design of iconic structures and buildings.
She said: “I love the idea of being involved in the creation of our built environment and being able to leave a ‘footprint’ on the world.”