AN INNOVATIVE fast track course in health and social care at West Cheshire College has helped dedicated student Stephen Speed secure a place at Salford University.
The 12-month BTEC National Certificate in Health and Social Care, equivalent to two A Levels, provides the opportunity for young people to top up their UCAS points for entry to university.
Stephen Speed, 18 from Mold, said: “After completing a year of A levels at sixth form I was concerned that I wouldn’t get the grades I needed to study at university.
“I knew that I wanted a career in health and social care so opted for the fast track course as it was an excellent alternative to help secure my goal, plus as it was just a 12 months course I could still go to university at the same time as my friends.
“The course was fantastic, rather than studying four different subjects at A levels, I was able to focus on the subject that I wanted to study at university.
“Plus, as it’s a vocational course we had lots of work placement opportunities which weren’t available at A level.”
Stephen, who has completed a summer placement at Countess of Chester Hospital and currently works part-time for a private mental health hospital, will be studying a BSc in Mental Health Nursing at Salford University and hopes to qualify as a mental health nurse.
Stephen added: “I’ve always liked looking after people. My father is a pharmacist and some members of my family have a learning disability - so it’s an area that I have always been passionate about.”
The fast track course has proved a great success, with all students securing a place at university or further study.
Starting in September 2010, West Cheshire College will be running two Fast Track BTEC National Certificates in Health and Social Care and Applied Science.
For further information, call the college hotline 01244 670600.
