“It is never too late to try again and build a future you’re proud of.”
Before enrolling on the Access to Higher Education Diploma in Computing, Ramala had already begun rebuilding her education after time away from learning. As an adult student without GCSEs, she describes feeling “lost, confused and stressed” about whether she could successfully enter the fast-moving IT industry.
Now, just a year later, she has achieved her GCSEs, completed her college studies and secured an ICT Apprenticeship in Central London - an opportunity that transformed both her confidence and career direction.
Encouraged by her teachers, she chose to progress onto an Access course to create clearer opportunities for the future. “They reassured me that the Access qualification would open many doors,” she explains. “It provides a supported pathway into Higher Education, whether that leads to university or an Apprenticeship.”
The course proved to be far more valuable than she expected. “Much of what I learned became useful during interviews,” she says. “I was able to talk confidently about real projects and experiences.”
One standout achievement was developing her own digital portfolio website, showcasing the technical skills she gained throughout the course. “I added it to my CV, and employers were genuinely interested. It gave me something practical to talk about and helped me stand out.”
The fast-paced assignments and practical sessions also helped prepare her for the realities of the workplace. “The course strengthened my time management, resilience and problem-solving skills. It really reflected the demands of the real working world and helped me secure my Apprenticeship.”
Looking back, she says the biggest change has been in her confidence and sense of direction. “I left with a clear vision, a strong portfolio and the belief that I could succeed.” She recently returned to BDC to personally thank her tutors, whose encouragement played a key role in her journey.
For other adults considering returning to education, her message is simple: “It is never too late. Start with determination, fully immerse yourself in the course and take every opportunity to build your skills. The work you do becomes the experience you speak about in interviews.”
