There's something for everyone after GCSEs and you don't have to follow one path.
Amber decided that A levels weren't for her...
'My lecturers and support team ... were always so understanding and helped me throughout my struggles.'
Amber's career journey
- Budmouth Academy, Weymouth
- UAL L3 Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology (2 years)
- BA (Hons) Costume at Arts University Bournemouth (AUB)
What was your learning journey?
I was born in Weymouth and have lived my whole life around the area. Growing up, due to divorced parents, I live in 2 residences in Weymouth and Portland. I studied at Budmouth Academy and then went on to study a UAL L3 Diploma in Creative Media Production and Technology at Weymouth College for 2 years.
During my years at Weymouth College, I gained confidence in myself and my work. Although I suffered with my mental health, my lecturers and the support team at Weymouth College were always so understanding and helped me throughout my struggles.
Even though I was happy with my college course, I knew that it wasn't for me. I wanted to complete it as it was a creative course, but I didn't know what I wanted to study afterwards. Originally I had accepted my place at a university in London to study lighting design, however I had this gut feeling that it wasn't right for me.
After being in contact with a career advisor from Weymouth College, I was able to complete and apply for a course that I was finally fully passionate about - hours before the final UCAS deadline.
What are you doing now?
Currently I am studying for a BA (Hons) in Costume at the Arts University Bournemouth and although my university experience has been different than expected, I am enjoying my studies.
I'm excited about having the opportunity to further my education in a subject I'm passionate about and it's all thanks to my experiences at Weymouth College.
Find your options
There are different ways to find out what your education options are:
- talk to your school tutor about the different career options or visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/where-next
- find more career information on careerpilot.org.uk
- find information and support about options at 16 in Dorset from Flying Start