A lot of people told me I should do A-Levels, but I wouldn’t be where I am today if I had! The Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A-Levels and can take you directly to university. I would encourage others to do what’s right for you – don’t just follow the crowd.
Amy HutcheonBTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Health Studies
From NWRC to University Success
Amy Hutcheon, a former Health Studies student at NWRC, has recently graduated from Ulster University with a BSc in Podiatry. Amy, now 21, began her journey at the Strand Road Campus in 2020 after completing her GCSEs at St Mary’s College.
Finding the Right Path
I chose the college because I didn’t have three A-Levels I wanted to study. The Health Studies course really appealed to me because it offered so many possible career pathways.
In my first year, most of our learning was remote due to COVID restrictions. Once things started to open up, I really enjoyed getting back into college and learning face-to-face."
She praised the support she received from staff at the College:
"The careers team were incredibly helpful, especially Conor Hassan, who supported me with my university interviews. The lecturers in the Health team were brilliant – nothing was ever too much trouble. I really enjoyed the course."
Achievements and Advice
During her time at NWRC, Amy achieved an Academic Achievement award at the college’s Best in FE awards. She gained top marks in her Extended Diploma (DDD) before progressing to Ulster University where she completed her three-year degree. She is now employed locally in her field.
"I would absolutely recommend NWRC! A lot of people told me I should do A-Levels, but I know I wouldn’t be where I am today if I had. The Extended Diploma is equivalent to 3 A-Levels and can take you directly to university. I’d encourage others to do what’s right for you – don’t just follow the crowd."
© Images courtesy of Ciara McDaid Photography
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