“I left School at 16 with half a dozen O levels, I was never very good at written English but I’ve been an avid reader all my life. I was always very into information technology; I got my first computer when I was 12 or 13 and I have been working with them for most of my life ever since.

 

When I left school I went on an I-Tech youth training scheme and when I left I was very computer literate and I worked for a few blue chip companies. I got to the point in those organisations where my lack of qualifications was hampering me and I had to go sideways. After changing industries I eventually found my way to a work-based training organisation and after a number of years worked my way up to be the IT Director.     I had a number of skills by then but my business skills were a bit rough and ready!

 

My partner recently completed her degree via Bromley College, and went she went up for her degree ceremony in her robes, I was so proud of her.   Then the penny dropped, I realised I’d missed out on a part of life – and that was when my interest in education began.

 

I’ve completed the first year of my Foundation Degree in Business & Management. It’s been very good in lots and lots of ways; there’s a real camaraderie in the class, I’ve made some really good friends.”