The hands-on way to get to university
NSHIW ABUBAKER is certain of what she wants her future to be: she aims to become a dental hygienist and therapist after following a vocational route.
The 19-year-old, from Coventry, had originally begun studying A-levels at a local sixth form, but had a change of heart two years ago.
She transferred to Birmingham Metropolitan College (BMet), achieving a double distinction grade at the end of her first year. Now in her second year, she is looking ahead to university after finishing her course.
Referring to her former A-level studies, she says: ‘I realised I wasn’t learning things as well as I could.
‘I also felt a bit too relaxed in my sixth form environment and didn’t know how to push myself. But now as a vocational science student, I find I have more freedom in the way I learn, so I’m better at managing my time.
‘My teachers make it clear that every piece of work I hand in counts in some way towards my final grades, and so I know I have to put the effort in.
‘I’ve achieved good marks from early on in the course, and this has motivated me to keep on doing better.
‘With a vocational course, you’re continually assessed throughout each unit you study. And that means you always have a pretty good idea of where you’re heading.’
Nshiw adds: ‘I enjoyed A-levels, but if I could go back to when I was 16, I would just go straight on to my vocational course. It’s a more direct route of entry onto my preferred university course.’ The Applied Science course is made up of a series of units in all of the scientific disciplines, along with research and employability skills from within the sector.
It consists of undertaking assignments and completing case studies, practicals and projects. There are examinations, and all those elements make up the final grade from two years’ work.
‘Vocational science is more about being hands-on than doing written exams, but that certainly doesn’t make the courses any easier than A-levels,’ she says.
‘The problem-solving, research and analytical skills are very specific. You have to figure things out by yourself — the internet can’t help you.
‘This is the type of study I really enjoy, because it suits my way of learning and I can find the right pathway for my future and gain the highest grades.’
Nshiw adds: ‘I did some work experience at a dental practice after I’d finished my GCSEs two years ago and did the same thing again this summer.
‘I got to know the hygienist there and was inspired by her work. My college course is at Level 3, which is equivalent to A-levels, so this is a route into university and my chosen career.’
BMET’S next Open Events take place on Wednesday, November 8 (4-7pm), and Saturday, November 25(10am-1pm). For details, visit bmet.ac.uk.