Emily started studying with us in 2019 on our Level 3 Foundation Art & Design course before progressing onto our HNC and HND courses. She was inspired to study at Warrington & Vale Royal College after attending one of our in-house exhibitions in the Crescent. Having been impressed with the talent and opportunities on display, Emily promptly applied for her course and had an interview to study with us.
When asked to describe the enrolment process, Emily used the words “quick” and “easy” – telling us that staff were very supportive and gave clear advice on funding options for adult students with children like herself. Once Emily began her studies at the college, she was blown away with the facilities and the equipment available to students. She describes these as “second to none” and tells us these really helped to take her learning to the next level. She says: “At Warrington & Vale Royal College, I was encouraged by my tutors to push my medium to the limit, and this has continued to be an inspiration through my degree.”
Emily quickly realised that she would like to pursue art as a career and was thankful for all the support and encouragement she received from tutors and the learning support teams at the college. She says: “I felt so blessed that I had the opportunity to pursue something I loved!”
As an adult student, Emily's experience at the college was overwhelmingly positive. She highlighted the respectful and adult-oriented treatment she received from tutors, as well as the lasting friendships that she forged with her peers. She also established strong relationships with the teaching staff who she praises highly.
Becky Rogers, one of Emily’s tutors, became a significant source of inspiration for Emily and ultimately led to her embarking on her own teaching journey. Having earned a First-Class Honours degree at the University of Chester, Emily will now begin working towards her Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) in Design Technology. Emily's aspiration is to become a high school teacher, inspiring young minds just as she was inspired by the tutors at Warrington & Vale Royal College.
More recently, Emily conveyed her gratitude to her tutors Ben Brady, Huw Phillips, and Becky Rogers through a heartfelt email, acknowledging their presence throughout her journey and stating: "What I've learned at Warrington & Vale Royal College will always stay with me, and hopefully one day I'll be able to support students as well as I was supported."
For those looking to study a higher education course at Warrington & Vale Royal College, Emily says: “Just do it! I have gained so much confidence and skills from my years at the college and I am proud that my daughters were able to see me graduate from doing something I truly loved. If I inspire one person with children to think ‘I can do that’ then I’ll be happy”
We want to wish Emily the best of luck for the future and we have no doubt that she will go far in her chosen career path!
Find out more about higher education courses for adults at Warrington & Vale Royal College here
