Jake's story

Jake is in Year 11 and is studying a Level 1 Certificate in Motor Vehicle Studies alongside his GCSE subjects. As part of the course he attends college one day a week.

Jake chose the course because he wanted to do something practical and had an interest in cars. He was also keen to study GCSEs in PE and humanities. He discussed his choices with his teachers, parents and Connexions personal adviser before making a final decision.

Jake's parents were initially concerned about Jake studying fewer GCSEs. They were reassured however that the course did lead to a qualification and that Jake would still gain 7 other GCSEs at school.

Jake has enjoyed the course and has learned a lot from going to college.

'The course has been fun and I've met different people. It has been good to do something practical and to have a change from school once a week.'

Although Jake has enjoyed the course and has achieved good grades, he has decided to work in construction and hopes to start an Apprenticeship when he leaves Year 11.