As A-Level pupils across the province prepare to take the next step in their academic journey, Southern Regional College (SRC) is encouraging talented and ambitious young people to explore the wide range of university-level study opportunities available at their local Further Education (FE) College.
SRC offers a diverse range of higher education programmes across a range of vocational areas, ensuring students receive high-quality, relevant training aligned to identified skills gaps. These programmes have been developed in partnership with prestigious Higher Education institutions, including Pearson, Queen’s University Belfast, The Open University, and Ulster University.
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal & Chief Executive of Southern Regional College said:
“Deciding what to do after secondary school can feel overwhelming for many young people. At Southern Regional College, we encourage students to explore all the pathways open to them, including those offered through their local Further Education College.”
“Our university-accredited programmes, ranging from HNCs and HNDs to Foundation Degrees, Honours Degrees and Higher Level Apprenticeships, enable students to study locally, develop highly relevant skills for the workplace and achieve substantial savings on the cost of higher education.”
There are many advantages for students who choose to stay local and study at their nearest FE College. Benefits include smaller class sizes, which support a more focused and personalised learning experience, lecturers with extensive industry experience, lower tuition fees and access to industry-standard facilities and equipment. All vocational programmes are developed in line with employer demand, ensuring students gain relevant, industry-recognised qualifications that enhance employability and progression to further study.
Caolan McCartan is currently studying the Engineering (Technical Design & Manufacture) Foundation Degree Higher Level Apprenticeship at SRC’s Newry Campus. He said:
“Originally, I had planned to follow a different career path, but after careful consideration I decided to change direction and apply to the College. I had heard very positive things about Southern Regional College and the opportunity to gain hands-on experience through a higher level apprenticeship really appealed to me. The combination of practical, real-world exposure alongside developing new skills and knowledge made it the right choice.
“Since joining the degree programme, my confidence and knowledge have grown significantly, supported by both the lecturing staff and my employer. I’ve developed new skills that have enabled me to compete successfully in competitions at an international level.”
Sárán Ó’Machail is currently studying the Creative Music and Audio Production BA (Hons) (Top-Up) Degree at the College’s Armagh campus, having recently completed the foundation degree, also at the Armagh campus. He said:
“The facilities available locally are the unbelievable and the best I’ve seen. Talking from someone that has done a lot of research into and visited other colleges and universities, I can safely say no other college has the same facilities as SRC. While other colleges might have some great lecturers, none will be as caring or kind-hearted as the lecturers at SRC. I’ve turned down offers twice from other institutions to study at SRC.”
He continued, “Through the degree, I’ve developed a versatile skillset, from marketing myself and performing, to composing and recording music, carrying out sound checks, and managing the business side of my career, including invoices and finances. Most importantly, I’ve learned how to build a sustainable income from music. Studying part-time has also allowed me to develop both professionally and creatively, without having to choose between education and employment.”
Southern Regional College is committed to providing clear information and expert guidance to help prospective students make informed decisions about their future. To find out more, visit your local campus to speak with staff or contact the Admissions team at admissions@src.ac.uk.
Applications for courses starting this September are now open. For full course details, entry requirements, and how to apply, visit http://www.src.ac.uk.
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