Course: Accounting

School: Altrincham College of Arts

"I chose Accounting because I want a career in Business and College was the best place to do this. It is more relaxed than school, you are treated more like an adult, and you don't have to wear a uniform. Being at College has given me an idea about what it will be like to study here when I leave school. In the future I want to study A Levels at Trafford College in Business, Law, Maths and Communication & Culture."

Top Tip!

"Take advantage of the support available to you at College"

Course: Society, Health and Development

School: Flixton Girls High School

"I chose this course because I had an interest in all the different sectors but didn't know which one I wanted to focus on when I leave school. I've really enjoyed the work we've done on the justice sector so I have decided to study Uniformed Public Services at College to eventually become a police officer. The course has given me a great insight into careers, and coming to College has been such a brilliant experience. My confidence has increased and I have become more organised and learnt how to manage my time better!"

Top Tip!

"Just do it! It'll be a good experience and you'll feel more independent studying at College!"

Course: Electronics

School: Wellacre Technology College

“I chose this course because it looked interesting and I fancied doing something more practical. My favourite things about coming to College are that you get to wear your own clothes and the tutors treat you like an adult. At first I didn’t really know my way around but I soon settled in and got to know more people. The facilities are excellent and the skills that I have learned have made me more confident. I want to carry on at Trafford College, possibly with Electronics, or another practical course.”

Top Tip!

"It’s a great idea and something you should definitely consider."

Course: Performing Engineering Operations Level 1

School: Ashton on Mersey High School

"I chose to study Engineering at College because I want to join the RAF and I thought this course would be useful because it’s more practical. One of my favourite things about College is you don’t have to wear a school uniform and you’re treated more like an adult. At first I was nervous about being the only girl, but I soon settled in and really enjoyed meeting people from other schools. The workshops are great and you always get to use the equipment as there is enough for everyone."

Top Tip!

"I would definitely recommend College. Help is always there when you need it."

Course: Plumbing

School: Altrincham College of Arts

“I chose this course because I’d already done a bit of Plumbing with a family member and I wanted to do something different that wasn’t offered at school. At first I was a little nervous about being on my own at College, but I’ve made lots of new friends. The work that you do is very practical which I prefer. My favourite parts of the course so far have been the soldering and pipe-bending. Hopefully this course will help me to get an Apprenticeship when I finish school.”

Top Tip!

"If it is something that you’re really interested in and you put in the work, you’ll do well."

Course: Beauty Therapy

School: Flixton Girls High School

 “I have always been interested in make-up, hair and nails and after watching the Trafford College video clips I thought this course would give me ahead start in my future career. I love the practical sessions in the salons and wearing the uniform really makes me feel like a professional. I felt nervous on my first day but everybody was really friendly. My confidence has really improved, which has helped me when working with people.”

Top Tip!

"Enjoy the experience and you'll get a recognised qualification which will give you a head start."

Course: Hospitality

School: Wellacre Technology College

“I’ve always been interested in cooking. At College it’s a more hands-on approach and the atmosphere is more laid back. You get to work in a real kitchen like in the workplace, which has given me a better idea about what I want to do when I leave school.”

Top Tip!

"Just go for it!"

Course: Motor Vehicle

School: Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College

"I chose to study Motor Vehicle as I enjoy motor bike racing, so it’s really helped with that. It’s different from being at school because it’s more practical and you’re not in a classroom all day. I get along with the tutors really well and the facilities are great, with big workshops so everyone gets a go. I really enjoy working on the cars. These skills will help me in the future when I have my own car and I’m also thinking of doing an Apprenticeship when I leave school."

Top tip!

"Go for it, it’s a great experience!"