Higher Technical Qualifications are preparing students for their next steps

We have been catching up with students at Bury College University Centre that are developing their skills whilst studying a Higher Technical Qualifications (HTQs). 

HTQs are Level 4 and 5 qualifications that have been approved by the Institute for Apprenticeships and Technical Education as meeting occupational standards for their relevant sector. They have been developed in collaboration with employers to ensure students have the skills required for their chosen careers.

Our Healthcare Practice HNC HTQ has been a useful pathway for students in recent years to progress onto higher education courses and then into employment.

Rimsha Iqbal is currently studying the course and aspires to become a Social Worker once she has finished her education. When talking about the benefits of a HTQ and the wider advantages of studying at Bury College University Centre, she said: “I have gained lots of new skills since first starting on the course. At a basic level, my communication skills have improved, and I now feel less nervous about talking to young people and families. In the short term, I am looking forward to starting my placement at Killelea House and putting my new skills into practice.”

After Rimsha completes the course, her immediate next step will be to attend the University of Salford, where she will study Social and Community Work.

Connor Kerfoot also has aspirations to progress his career. He spoke candidly about the benefits of starting his higher education journey in more familiar surroundings at Bury College. Connor said: “I have benefitted from the smaller class sizes. Having more personalised support has allowed me to develop my knowledge and start preparing for my career. 

He is already working within the healthcare sector, as a career at Millfield Care Home. Connor spoke about how the course has already had a positive impact on his career, saying: “It’s helped me prepare for different situations that can occur within a care home and take the lead in certain cases where appropriate. I didn’t have the confidence to do that before I started the course.  Once I have gained this qualification, I aim to study a full bachelor's and become a qualified Child Psychologist.”

Click here to discover more about Higher Technical Qualifications at Bury College University Centre.