Different pathway offers progression route in engineering for Dan

Keeping your options open proved fortuitous for a young man with ambitions in engineering.

Dan Cooke (17) said, “I first heard about SERC when someone from the College came to give a talk at Saintfield High School, so had a better understanding of the alternative progression options alongside the traditional A-Level route.

He added, “I was delighted to be able to progress to Level 3 Mechatronic Engineering at SERC and I am really enjoying the course.  There is a lot of theory and plenty of independent study but for at least one day a week, we get hands-on with the machinery – mills and lathes at this stage – in the workshop which I really enjoy.  There is a lot of emphasis placed on health and safety, which is paramount, given the equipment we are using in the engineering workshop.   We are also equipped with PPE as part of the course."

Dan added, “I have found the tutors all great and very supportive. They treat you like an adult and there is mutual respect for everyone in the classroom.  The teaching and the course are different from school, and I have found it much more agreeable to my style of learning and other students might find - like me - that it clicks better with them. The facilities for the course are great and we have access to all sorts of engineering machinery that you would find in the workplace."

He added, “Coming to SERC was hugely different from school.   At the start of the course, for the first two weeks, everyone takes part in Enterprise Fortnight.  Students all work together to find solutions for real world problems through project based learning.  It was a fantastic way to meet other students and immerse yourself in what you are going to be studying as well as College life."

Dan concluded, “I would certainly recommend coming to SERC and would encourage everyone to find out what is on offer at the College. A Levels are just one option and when you are aware of other options you can make an informed choice.   There is also support to gain essential skills in English, Maths or ICT, alongside your main course, if required.   Right now, I am focussing on successfully completing my Level 3, but hope to pursue further study in the engineering. My course is the equivalent of 3 A Levels and will take me in the same direction, just a different pathway.” 

Find out how you can unlock your future with SERC. Come along to our Open Evening for Full Time students from 4.00pm – 7.00pm on Wednesday 8 March 2023 at the College’s Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards Campuses.