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Vocational achievement and the benefits of technical, practical and vocational learning is celebrated today (May 15) on VQ Day. To mark this day, we’re sharing the success of some our students and their college journeys so far.

Level 3 Childcare student Elen Davies loves the sense of independence from spending three days a week on placement in a school. The 18-year-old, who wants to become a primary school teacher in Wales, chose the course after leaving sixth form, as she wasn’t enjoying A levels. “I love the sense of independence. Spending three days a week on placement as a teaching assistant at Usk Primary was the nicest experience ever and made me love my course. The workload is so much lighter than just continuous assignments. Coming to college has got me out of my comfort zone, I didn’t know anyone when I came here but I’ve made lots of friends – everyone is so friendly. The teachers give lots of support and help me with my work – no question is a silly question.” She added that the two taster days that she attended were really good and helped her settle into college life.

Level 2 Fabricating and Welding student Lee Ryder aims to follow in his grandfather’s footsteps and become a pipe welder travelling around the world. He is hoping to get an apprenticeship after completing Level 2 and continue studying one day a week in college and the rest in the workplace. “The facilities here are great – there is everything that you need with bays and all the different equipment. I really like the welding side, especially preparing metal. I was a little apprehensive when I first started and saw people welding but as soon as I started in the workshop I was fine. My advice to others is – keep your eye on what you want to do and focus on your goals. In five years’ time I’d like to be like my grandad – a pipe welder travelling around the world welding – it’s something that I’ve wanted to do since I was young. The pay is good and I wouldn’t mind my own business in the future.”