“The transition from school to university can be overwhelming and it’s difficult to picture how the theory you are learning in a lecture can be used in the workplace,” he said.
“When I made the decision to leave university and study a Foundation Degree in Mechanical and Manufacturing Engineering, I had no idea how beneficial it would be for me. Studying at Northern Regional College was fundamental to my own learning and education.
“There are other options apart from university which can be better suited to you. Some people, including myself, really value the practical element of learning while you work.”
Andrew continued: “Being able to be employed while studying at the college one day per week was amazing to put my knowledge into practice and see how the theory was used day-to-day at work.
“I can confidently say that I was able to gain a strong foundation in advance of attending university. I would recommend doing an apprenticeship and studying at Northern Regional College again and again.
“Not only was the course I studied a great stepping stone for university, but I gained skills which have helped with my job immensely.”
Northern Regional College offers a range of full time and part time higher education courses.
Qualifications include Higher Level Apprenticeships (HLAs), Foundation Degrees, Higher National Certificates/Diplomas and Degrees. The College also offers an Access to University course which provides mature students with an alternative progression route to higher education.