Why did you apply to Croydon College?

Before Croydon College I was working in a job I didn’t enjoy, and I really wanted an opportunity to make my life better with education and qualifications. I had to leave school at a young age so I never got the opportunity to study for a professional qualification before now.

What have been your highlights whilst studying here at Croydon College?

Discovering that I was more than capable of studying at College, and that I was able to exceed other people’s expectations of me.  I have met some amazing people and received fantastic support from my tutor. When I won a voucher for one of my pieces of work, it really showed me that I could do it and boosted my confidence a lot.

Have you experienced any challenges and how have you overcome these?

Being a single mother and trying to juggle childcare whilst coming to College has proven to be a huge challenge for me. I always thought I couldn’t succeed as I had never really done exams before, so I was scared I wouldn’t pass. As my child has grown-up, childcare is a lot easier. Also, the encouragement from my tutor Sarah and help from my fellow colleagues has been fantastic.

How has the College supported you?

The College has really helped me when my daughter was sick and understood that, although I wanted to come into College to study, I had to be there for my child. My friends in class always sent me the work so I didn’t miss out, and the College provided me with catch-up sessions so I could ask questions in areas I didn’t understand.

Do you have any advice for future students?

If you put the time and dedication into your work, you realise you can achieve anything. Croydon College is not a place to hide, it’s a place to excel where you can have a bright future full of opportunities.

What are your future aspirations?

To own my very own business and several salons to provide job roles for other women like me who have had little opportunities in life.

Latest News & Updates

Art and Design Student Wins Panto Dame Competition

Art and Design Student Wins Panto Dame Competition

Croydon College Level 2 Art and Design students participated in a panto dame costume design competition in November leading up to Christmas. The students submitted a total of 45 designs to Stanley Arts for them to judge. The theatre company received a vast number of...

read more
Apprenticeship Showcase 2023

Apprenticeship Showcase 2023

Croydon College’s Apprenticeship Showcase, held on 7 February, welcomed students and members of the general public to explore the wide range of apprenticeships on offer. From school leavers to adults looking to upskill or re-train, the wide range of professional and...

read more
Apprenticeships Interview on Croydon FM

Apprenticeships Interview on Croydon FM

Croydon College's very own Nicola Tarry was interviewed on Croydon FM as part of National Apprenticeship Week. You can listen back to the show by clicking the "play" button.Find out all about how apprenticeships work, how much you can expect to earn, and...

read more
Croydon College Meets Woodcote High Students

Croydon College Meets Woodcote High Students

On 8 February, we had the pleasure of attending a career evening at Woodcote High School. Straight away, we were impressed by their polite student helpers and how well the event was organised. Throughout the event, we handed out prospectuses, pens and sweets as we...

read more