At just 22, Shauna is the proud owner of Inspiration Hair Design in Strathfoyle, and returned to College to gain her Level 3 qualification. “The part-time course gives me the opportunity to work in the salon and study one day per week, and the support I’ve received from the staff has been exceptional. My customers have really benefited as I’m now able to offer a wider range of modern techniques and styles.”

Shauna Deehan
Level 3 Hairdressing – Limavady Campus

While employed by Albert Fry Associates (Structural Civil Engineers), Kieran, from Strabane undertook the HNC course, in which he achieved distinctions in every module. ”I was able to manage my job and my studies, thanks to how well the course was structured and designed, and I’m now preparing to progress to the degree programme in the University of Ulster.”

Kieran Doherty
Higher National Certificate in Civil Engineering

My course at the College was rewarding and invaluable. It was great to study modules on Food and Beverage, Events Management and Tourism. I’d always wanted to open a coffee shop and as a student here, I learnt you need to believe in yourself to achieve your ambition.”

Nuala Griffiths
Foundation Degree in Hospitality and Tourism Management

Passing the Access course with Commendation was the second celebration in a week for Collette, who became a mum to baby Erin just seven days before the Graduation ceremony.
“I’d wanted to return to College to improve my qualifications and was very fortunate that my employer, Seagate, released me to do this course. I would absolutely recommend it to anyone who has been out of education for a while – it was a very worthwhile experience and I know it will be of benefit when I return to employment.”

Collette McBride
Access Diploma in Life & Social Science - Limavady Campus

When Renata’s 3 children left home to study, she decided she would follow their lead and enrol on a course that would challenge her.
“I’d never formally studied art, but I had used creative techniques in my work as an occupational therapist, and wanted a course that would allow me to experiment with different techniques.
The course is as much a social event as a learning experience – it’s been lovely to meet people with similar interests and I plan to move onto the Associate Bachelors degree next year.”

Renata Maassen
Certificate of Higher Education in Fine & Applied Arts

The support and experience Fidelma gained on the College’s Access Certificate gave her the confidence to progress to the BSc Hons Social Work Degree.
“I would highly recommend the College to school-leavers and adult learners alike. I really enjoyed the challenge of returning to study and meeting people with a similar drive to retrain for a new career.
Education is the passport to your chosen career prospects and age should never be a barrier to your learning.”

Fidelma Heaney
Certificate in Foundation Studies (Health & Welfare)

As a previous student at the College, Katie found these positive experiences made her choice to return an easy one.
“I have studied at the College before so it was no surprise to me that the lecturers were so helpful and experienced. I can’t wait to move onto University to complete my studies, and without the HNC that wouldn’t have been possible.”

Katie McCullough
HNC Health & Social Care

“The fact that the course was taught in the evenings really suited me as I work during the day”, remarked Sion Mills mum Sheila.
“I only wish that I had done this years ago because I just love it so much.  I feel like I’m getting back out there and doing something after so many years looking after my children.”

Sheila McNamee
Sion Mills
NVQ Level 2 Hairdressing, Strabane