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D.F.L:
I joined Step Up because I got withdrawn from my chosen course at the start of the year. Prior to being withdrawn I had never heard of Step Up, and at the time I was desperately looking for another course to join as I wanted to stay in full-time education and have the opportunity to re-sit my English language GCSE. So I spoke to numerous people at the college to find a solution, and my link tutor at the time mentioned Step Up and it ended up being my last and only option so I took the opportunity with little to no idea about what I was getting myself into.
On day one, when I walked into the classroom my first thoughts were actually questions in my head, such as I wonder why all of these people are in here, is it because they were in the same situation as me perhaps? At first I was unsure whether I was going to enjoy this course. However as time went on I got to know my tutor who is incredibly admirable and I found that I was able to relate to him in certain ways which has had a huge positive impact on me. I’ve also gotten to know my classmates with whom I’ve had loads of good laughs, shared some good stories and found that we also have some things in common which are crucial for building good relationships/ friendships. I’m ever so grateful to have had the opportunity to join this course as it has genuinely helped me and if anyone finds themselves in the same situation that I was in at the start of the year then I’d seriously recommend Step Up.
The best things about the course are the tutors and the opportunity it gives you to have another chance, and ultimately make a positive change to your life. The course goes over a lot of things that most other courses wouldn’t cover, such as practicing for a job interview for example, or learning how to effectively budget your money. Even going over how to improve your self-confidence.
The most challenging thing about the course isn’t necessarily the course itself. The real challenge is with yourself. The real challenge in my eyes is actually changing, it demands growth. The qualification you get at the end of the course highlights exactly what you are working towards, and that is progression.
The greatest moment for me whilst on the course was all of it. I enjoyed every single lesson. But if I had to highlight a specific moment that particularly stands out to me, I’d have to say the lessons we’ve had in the sports hall as we got to play badminton, table tennis and basketball together. Me and one of my classmates even got to play a basketball game against our tutor and another fellow classmate - I even got the opportunity to throw a mini dj set in class which was pretty cool.
If I could start the course over again, the thing I would do differently is to simply go into it with more of an open mind.
I now plan to progress on to the Level 3 Music Technology course they have at Suffolk New as that follows the career I want to pursue.
K.A:
I joined Step Up because I wanted to improve my skills, concentration and also build my confidence around doing things I normally wouldn't do.
On day one, when I walked into the classroom my first thoughts were is this definitely right for me. It definitely was, I just didn't realise there were so many people doing the course.
The best things about the course are how normal and not ‘educational’ it felt. It was always a good atmosphere in the classroom and everyone felt respected/included. Ola has been an amazing tutor and I'm glad I got to experience his teaching and learning opportiunities.
The most challenging thing about the course was probably having to step out of my comfort zone and do mock job interviews and presentations. My bestie helped me with my presentation on whether alcohol should be legal or not. My mock job interview was overall a positive experience, which has been very useful to find a job.
The greatest moment for me whilst on the course was doing my presentation. Its something I hate doing but it felt great to achieve it with the support and encouragement from my mate who helped me plan it and gave me feedback on the presentation itself. I'm happy that I chose to do it instead of just backing out like I normally would.
If I could start the course over again, the things I would do differently are improve my attendance towards the course, by being on time more. I would also improve my level of focus towards my work by getting tasks done on time and working to the best of my ability.
I now plan to progress on to working full time at a local pub where I currently work part-time. From there I'm unsure of what I would like to do, but with all the skills I've learnt from this course I know there are plenty of options out there to support me and my future.
L.R.G:
I joined Step Up because I was struggling on my previous course and a teacher recommended this course to me as she thought it would be a better route for me.
On day one, when I walked into the classroom my first thoughts were that my teacher seemed friendly and the course was going to help me with my future.
The best things about the course are the skills it gives you and the opportunities you have to become a better person and have a career idea of what you'd like for your future.
The most challenging thing about the course was accepting my own challenges and being effective and persistent in making those changes in myself and my day to life to reach my goal, like
The greatest moment for me whilst on the course was meeting new people who were going through similar situations as me and being supported in my decision to eventually move on to full time work.
If I could start the course over again, the things I would do differently are
I would work on my attendance better as despite coming in most days, my attendance is not quite at the required percentage.
I now plan to progress on to full time work in either health and social care or hospitality.
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