Amy's Story

Amy is currently studying NCFE Level 1 Uniformed Services and GCSEs in English, mathematics, science and religious studies. She finds exams difficult and chose to do a more coursework-based subject alongside her academic studies. She chose Uniformed Services because she is very interested in a career in the Fire Service. She said the course is largely practical and portfolio assessed which suits her style of learning:

'I find exams and revision really hard and much prefer projects and coursework. The course has also given me the chance to be assessed for my practical skills as well as my written work.'

Amy has really enjoyed the college course and said it has prepared her well for post-16 study:

'One of the great things about the course is the opportunity I've had to mix with different people. I've learnt loads of new skills and become much more confident.'

Amy plans to continue at college after Year 11 to study a BTEC First Diploma in Public Services. She needs to achieve two A-C grades in her GCSEs in order to do this, as well as pass the Uniformed Services course:

'Having less pressure from the Uniformed Services course has given me more time to concentrate on my other subjects and revise for the exams.'