Qualifications and Employability – Ingredients for Courtney’s Success

Courtney McBurney (21) from Bangor found her route to success lay with SERC after attending an open day in 2016 which helped her decide her next steps in education would be with the College.

After completing the Level 3 Travel and Tourism and Level 3 Food and Beverage Supervision courses, Courtney progressed to Higher Education with SERC and is studying the Ulster University Foundation Degree Hospitality and Tourism Management with Specialisms.

Her time at SERC has not only progressed her education in the Travel and Tourism industry but also helped her employability in the sector. “I have gained so much experience and knowledge since joining SERC, especially while studying the Foundation Degree. Being on the course helped me secure employment in a restaurant. I continue to learn more every day on the course and I am then able to apply that to my job.

Speaking about the SERC learning experience Courtney said, “I enjoyed the fact that my Foundation Degree class was smaller which meant I become friends with all my fellow students. We have gone on many educational trips and even gained experience working in an army base serving Christmas dinner.

Courtney concluded, “I am hoping to go on to study International Hospitality Management at Ulster University in September 2021. After completing the Foundation Degree, I will be able to commence in second year so I have a head start. I wouldn’t be able to do this or even have my job in a restaurant if it wasn’t for SERC and my College tutors helping along the way. I can’t thank them enough. I would definitely recommend SERC and the Foundation Degree to anyone considering further or higher education.”

Come along to our Higher Education Open Evening 6.00pm – 8.30pm, Thursday 10 June at Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards.   Apply Now for HE programmes commencing September 2021. Visit www.serc.ac.uk to find out how you could be part of the next generation of professionals. #BetterOffAtSERC #OnlineAndOpenForBusiness Find us on Facebook, search SERC.