Posted: Wednesday 26 May 2010

Mature students on course for success

Two local mature students turned to Kilmarnock College for a helping hand back into full-time education, and found that not only did the different levels of courses at the College help, so did its fantastic links with universities throughout Scotland.The mature students, both with different academic backgrounds, have used the varying entry level requirements to their benefit in order to enrol in the Administration and IT courses. The courses are available at Access level for NQs and also HND level for those interested in progressing to university, meaning whether students have little or few qualifications, or have already completed a college course, there is something for everyone.

Kirstin Muir (27) who is studying a HND in Administration and IT said: “I came to Kilmarnock College to study Administration, and through the College’s links with Glasgow Caledonian University, I have applied for a honours degree. The College’s articulation arrangements with the university mean that students who complete the HND course to the University’s entry level can progress into the third year of the degree, which is a huge advantage.”

Julie Maxwell, Curriculum Manager Computing, Administration and IT at Kilmarnock College, said: “Kristin is a self-motivator, a hard worker and will make an excellent university student. Kristin volunteered to do admin duties at the College in addition to her course, which meant she gained invaluable work experience. After her degree she is hoping to do a postgraduate degree in teaching and come back to Kilmarnock College to teach.”

Sharon Gibson (32), from Stewarton, is a student on the Access to Administration and IT course, and commented: “I left school at 16 to go right into a job working with children, however over five years later I desperately needed something to help me progress my career and challenge myself so I moved into the retail sector.  After working three years in retail, I took the plunge and enrolled at the College as a mature student to gain the relevant skills needed for the market place. 

“All my lecturers are fantastic and have been so helpful. They all understand that it can be difficult for a mature student like me to adjust to full-time education after so many years. They are all patient and help me to bring out the best in myself.”

The courses give students the skills that employers are looking for including word processing, customer service, spreadsheets and office management. They also cover practical exercises such as team building and communication skills.

The Access to Administration and IT course and the HND equivalent are available on a full or part-time basis. Administration and IT courses are also available at NQ (National Qualification) and HNC Level. Kilmarnock College is currently recruiting students interested in starting these courses in August 2010.   

For further information on the Administration and IT courses call 01563 523501 or visit the courses section.

-END-

For more information, contact:

Ross Henderson, Halogen Communications, (T) 0131 202 0120 (F) 0131 225 3757 (E) ross@halogencom.com.

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