ofsted
ofsted

Student Stories on Employability

Conner, Freelance Graphic Designer

“My course taught me the fundamentals of design, while also showing me the key things to do when learning and understanding a new skill. My work placement helped me to see what area of design I enjoyed the most while also giving me a great sense of how the industry works. From this I’ve been able to use these skills engaging and landing clients.

The best part of the job is seeing my work being used and making an impact on other businesses. During my time out of college, I’ve been travelling around the Caribbean, I also joined a small group of friends who share the same passion as mine, during this time we have created a product that has engagements of over 150k views per month. We hope to take this further and turn it into a profitable business.”


William, now a Commis Chef at Le Manoir aux Quat’Saisons

“My time at college helped me prepare for my career by giving me the training I needed to get into my chosen profession. For my work placement I went to The Four Seasons Hotel in Dogmersfield for four weeks, after which I was offered a part-time position with them. This gave me experience in a top class establishment to enable me to then progress to a Michelin Star restaurant.

The single best thing about my job is the buzz from a busy service. Next I’d like to continue to progress and gain promotion at Le Manoir. My Executive Head Chef recommended I enter this year’s Craft Guild of Chefs Graduate Awards competition for under 23 year olds, which is a National competition. I am now a Finalist (one of twelve) with the final being held this August in Birmingham. I hope my tutors are aware and proud of the progress one of their previous students is making!”


Lisa, Early Years Practitioner

“While at college I learned everything I needed to know about what my job involved and how to be professional in the workplace. I went to a different nursery or school every term which really helped me see that I enjoyed working with younger children in a nursery.

Seeing a child take their first steps is the most interesting part of my job and I really enjoy looking after children and watching them develop. I’d like to progress at my work and possibly become a room leader or senior next.


George, now a Team Leader at Southco Manufacturing

My time at college improved my technical knowledge which I can now apply to my current role, where I really enjoy managing my team. I’d say learning about new products and technology as well as viewing and advising my organisation on potential new opportunities is the most interesting part of my job.

Constant change in products, how to machine them, what tooling is required and the feeling when you complete a successful project are definitely the most enjoyable parts of my work. I am currently proceeding with my career in production engineering but am transitioning towards the management and leadership side of things, my organisation are fully supporting my goals and providing training and courses.

Since college I have worked at three different companies; two production facilities and one tool making facility. I have gained much experience in doing so, but for now I can see myself progressing towards a great future with my current organisation and have no plans on moving anytime soon.


Steven, now a Teacher at The Weydon School

“I was motivated to be a teacher, so I needed to top-up my existing qualification to a full BSc in Sport. I came to Farnborough because I had already studied a college course here and knew the teachers would support me to help me reach my goals.

The lecturers give you responsibility and motivation – in a ‘if you’re here, we’ll give you everything’ way. The course was spread out so I always knew how to plan and balance work, studying and life.


Ellen, Creative Production Coordinator at Chi & Partners

“Choosing a University was a very difficult process for me, on the one hand I was excited to move out and meet new people, and on the other I had enjoyed my two year Photography diploma course at FCOT so much I didn’t want to leave.Eventually, after much toing and froing, thinking about both my social life, but more importantly my quality of education I made the decision to complete my Photography degree at University Centre Farnborough.

Throughout the three year course I have never looked back on my decision! The combination of small course sizes and dedicated lecturers meant that, unlike large universities, I could meet with my tutors as often as I needed, allowing my work to continuously progress.

During my time at Farnborough I had some incredible experiences, ones that I was lucky enough to share with the friends for life I’d made. From the many trips, including Paris, Amsterdam and London, to spending hours in the dark room and fully-kitted studio and event planning, curating and holding a photography exhibition showing my final photography project in the centre of London!

In the five years I spent at FCOT and UCF I learned far much more than I could ever have asked for. With the knowledge and confidence the courses gave me, I have been able to get an incredible job at a top advertising agency, working in the centre of London.

During my final year I began assisting a celebrity photographer on a number of different shoots, many of which were featured in magazines such as: OK! Reveal and New. With this experience and the encouragement of my lecturers I have now become a Creative Production Coordinator at CHI & Partners; job I could only have dreamed of before my degree.

University Centre Farnborough has not only given me a great degree but also helped me begin the rest of my life!


Skip to content