School Leavers

After successfully completing Equine Management at Bicton College, Amy Tilbury Stamate found steady work at a local stud yard, caring for thoroughbreds from foals to broodmares and future racehorses.

Jonah won our Shining Star Construction Trades Award 2025 along with the regional Skill Build competition 2025

Nathan won our Motor Vehicle Shining Star Award in 2025.

“I love working on big engines. I have learnt a lot working in industry on my apprenticeship at Conway Bailey Transport.”

“This project has been a game-changer for me. The skills I’ve gained here extend beyond personal choices; they help guide me to actively make greener decisions, which will positively contribute to a more environmentally responsible industry.”

“I chose an apprenticeship so I could be more hands-on with the animals. I always prefer to do more hands-on experience rather than being sat in a classroom. I really enjoy spending time with the animals and I love watching them get better.”

After completing her course in Animal Management, Bryony took her passion for animal welfare to Madagascar, where she led a rescue and rehoming project for stray dogs.

“The tutors’ broad range of real life industry experience helped to prepare me for a life in the field, helping me build my confidence and improve my knowledge and skillset every day.”

“My apprenticeship has set me up for life. If you’re a young farmer, this is definitely the education pathway for you!”

Executive Chef at Sons & Daughters in San Francisco. Was Head Chef at Gastrologik in Stockholm. Recently received Michelin Guide to California ‘Young Chef Award’ 2023

Georgina returned to college as a mature student wishing to complete a one year course in Travel and Tourism, having recently returned to the UK from working overseas. Georgina hosted a Spanish lunchtime language club during her time at college and participated in a cultural and work experience visit to Portugal. Near the completion of her course Georgina secured full-time employment as a Passenger Service Agent at Newquay Airport and we were able to assist in balancing her airport training along with a bespoke study programme to enable her to gain her qualification. Georgina has agreed to return to college to deliver a presentation to the current students on employment opportunities at airports. (Georgina will be happy to have her photo taken at the airport, if the airport agrees and we can take this airside, next to an aircraft, this would be an eye-catching image to use.

Adam now works for Great Western Railways (GWR). It was always his ambition to follow this career path, so joined Travel and Tourism to gain a relevant qualification. We were able to tailor course assessments and work experience to meet GWR recruitment requirements. Adam gained a position with GWR as a Customer Host immediately after leaving college and has now progressed to a Train Manager. Adam has recently returned to the college to deliver and in-depth GWR careers talk to the current students. (When Adam was recently at the college he agreed to be involved in this type of marketing activity and would be happy to have his photo taken on the trains.)

I used to be really shy and quiet, but putting myself forward for
competitions changed everything. It brought me out of my shell and gave
me so much more confidence.
I looked forward to coming to college every day. We all became good
friends, and it was just amazing to be on a course I genuinely loved.
Cornwall College has been brilliant. The support, the course, the
opportunities…I’ve enjoyed every part of it.

I’ve always wanted to be a veterinary nurse, but I never really knew how to get into
it until someone suggested I look into apprenticeships. I searched online and found
that Bicton College offered the course, so I applied. What surprised me most about my apprenticeship is that everyone is on the same
level. We’re all in the same boat, and even though we don’t work at the same
practice, we connect over the cases we’ve shared. For anyone considering a veterinary apprenticeship – or any apprenticeship – I’d
say to go for it. You get hands-on experience that you wouldn’t find anywhere else,
and it’s absolutely worth it.
One-on-one support has been really valuable, especially from my tutors at Bicton
and my employer. I know I can go to them for anything, and they won’t judge me for
asking questions. That support makes a huge difference.

I was already studying at Duchy College, and I really wanted a job in animal care.
When I saw an opening, I thought, if there’s a way to get into animal care, then an
apprenticeship is the way. There’s a lot more responsibility in this role compared to being a student. As a
student, you mainly learn about handling and care, which I still do, but now I’ve also learned about veterinary treatments and everything else that comes with working in
animal care. An apprenticeship is a great way to earn while you learn, and we get so much
hands-on experience. I’ve learned so much while doing it, and it’s been a really
rewarding experience.

I’ve really enjoyed getting hands-on experience with the ponies and meeting so
many different people. The variety of people who do apprenticeships – all different
ages, abilities, and backgrounds – is really interesting. My advice for anyone thinking of becoming an apprentice is to just go for it. An
apprenticeship can be for anyone, and it’s a really good experience. You get to do
something you love while working. I started my apprenticeship after volunteering at the charity last year. I really
enjoyed it and just fell in love with the job, and the ponies. They basically couldn’t get
rid of me! So, I decided to do an apprenticeship with them, and they agreed. The rest
is history. One surprising thing has been the variety of people and ponies I get to interact with.
There are people of all ages and abilities doing apprenticeships, and when I go to
college, I get to work with all sorts of different ponies. It’s been a great experience.

Maddie has studied at Bicton Equine for 2 years keeping her mare Prue on working livery at the college. She completed work experience placements at Westridge Veterinary Practice & The Mare & Foal Sanctuary. Maddie is now applying for full time employment within the sales & marketing sector of the equine industry. We wish Maddie the best of luck with her future career.

Hazel was a member of the Elite Riding Academy & Bicton NSEA Team. She spent her work experience at Langaller Stud gaining experience with young stock & stallions. She is now studying MSci Equine Science and producing her own young horse for dressage competitions.

Corey joined Bicton on the Level 2 Technical course initially and worked his way up through Level 3 540 and 1080. Corey has worked hard throughout his course, making the most of feedback to develop skills and further his knowledge and understanding. Corey has contributed strongly to the college community, being elected as CCSU president and creating initiatives to support both learners such as free breakfasts on campus and in the wider community such as raising money for charity. Corey gained work experience at a vet practice which led to a paid job once a week through the duration of his course. Corey has excellent feedback from this job and has now been offered a placement with them to study on the Level 3 Vet Nursing course at Bicton to start January 2025. This is an excellent result leading to great progression. Corey worked hard on an independent research project this year training our Rhea to improve welfare for carrying out health checking procedures, linking theory to practice and work experience – a great example of using all the learned skills from his time at college.

Darcy has completed the Level 3 course over 2 years including a year long industry placement in the second year at a vet practice. Darcy has worked extremely hard on the course and achieved his aim of gaining a university place to study Veterinary Medicine at Nottingham University. Darcy has shown amazing commitment to his course including representing the college and supporting the practical team. Darcy carried out an in-depth piece of research into Rhea behaviour for his Specialist Project module.

I chose Bicton College because I’m a visual, active learner, so a vocational course was much more beneficial for me than A-levels would be. It was just the toolkit that I needed.
I’m a residential student and live on-site at Bicton College. I moved out at 16, I do my own laundry, cooking, cleaning and more. This experience has boosted my independence to live independently and has given me the skills that I now need for university moving on. It makes me feel less nervous for university and it’s made me feel ready for adult life. My day-to-day college life consists of hands-on husbandry and animal management practices, high to our zoological standards. We feed, clean and look after all the animals on campus, with a particular focus on enrichment and the welfare of all our animals, who have their own daily health check diaries and records. Bicton College has taught me how different animals act by allowing me to experience their behaviour first-hand, and be able to recognise what the animal could be going through.

I enjoyed getting to meet lots of amazing and unique horses to work with and the few true friends I made.
I work on a stud yard in my village looking after thoroughbreds from foals to broodmares and even horses that will race. I also will ridehorses for clients whether it be regular exercise or schooling and bringing on.
The course prepared me by giving me a lot of practical skills I never had beforehand and by letting me be taught by
different lovely lecturers who all had expertise in different areas of the equine industry. They
also supplied me with my BHS training which gave me the qualifications to be seen as a
trusted and experienced employee. In 2023, I won the title of British Showjumping Club Champion of the
senior 70cm with my pony Basement Jack.

I chose to do an apprenticeship for the money and to get a taste of what my future
will be like on-site as a bricklayer. The skills I’ve learned in my apprenticeship include fast thinking and maths.
The advice I’d give to someone doing an apprenticeship is determination. When you
think you want to quit, just keep going. It’s all worth it in the end.

I’ve learned everything from first fix (all the work needed to take a building from
foundation to putting plaster on the walls) to second fix (all of the work after a
building has been plastered), covering all aspects of carpentry – from roofing, bespoke joinery and flooring, to skirting and hanging doors. There is so much that I
can use in the real world.
Building confidence has been a big part of my apprenticeship. I’ve worked with a lot
of different people and different trades, and I’ve even interacted with clients,
understanding their needs and wants. Carpentry is a transferable skill that you can
take anywhere in the world.
The first main piece of advice I’d give when starting an apprenticeship – especially
in the trades – is to get on-site and do labouring first. It helps you see what kind of
trade you want to get into because there are so many options. It will save you a lot of
time in the long run.
Also, the skills and qualifications you gain can be used anywhere, not just in the UK.
It opens up so many different avenues for the future.

I’m a Low Carbon Heating Technician, and I work at Blue Flame.
I chose to do an apprenticeship so I could earn, learn valuable skills, and get paid
while doing it. The advice I’d give to someone doing an apprenticeship is: just do it. You’re going to
get paid well while you are learning and you’re going to love it, so you might as well
go for it.
I’ve received a lot of support from my employer and my tutor – especially my
employer – because they keep encouraging me to perform well. And Gary – my tutor
– keeps giving me lots of information and support.

During secondary school I acquired the opportunity to work for an agricultural contracting business. This began as work experience which later turned into a part time job. I still work for the company today and have progressed on to driving machinery on a couple of jobs. At Duchy College I am training to become a fully qualified Plant Operator and once I am finished here and have gained my chosen CPCS tickets, I will move on to full time work for Meavy Farm. I have enjoyed my time at Duchy College because I have had the opportunity to learn how to drive different kinds of machinery and I now feel more prepared about progressing into full time employment.

Despite having problems with his health and having a large brain surgery operation in the summer he is still excelling at the course and doing well. We thought that he would be a good learner to put down as a student profile.

Harry completed his work experience and got a cracking review from the employer. Because of this he has been offered an apprenticeship with Hollands and Long in Helston. The review is copied here:
Harry was a pleasure to have with us for a couple of weeks, showing an eagerness to learn and muck in. He was always on time and dressed correctly with everything he needed for site work. He used initiative by asking for his next job once he’d completed his initial task. One piece of constructive criticism, that we have also relayed to Harry in person, is to slow down and digest the information he has been given before starting a task to avoid making mistakes. We are delighted to invite him to join our team as an electrical apprentice in January 2025.

Morgan has been working with GreenGen Ltd for the past 3 years and is currently enrolled on the Plumbing Apprenticeship Course, Phase 4. Morgan passed his phase 3 exam at the end of his 3rd year of the Apprenticeship with a Distinction, not only that Morgan passed with 100%! This is an amazing achievement and very rarely gained, so I feel this should be celebrated. His tutor has commented as to his great attitude to learning and his great participation in class sessions.

Joseph Worked for Phil Cornes at PLC Mechanical Services in Newquay whilst completing his Apprenticeship.
After some difficulties, Joseph completed and passed his Level 3 Apprenticeship obtaining a Merit overall.
Joseph now runs his own successful business in Essex and is doing very well.

Ryan was nominated for the King’s Silver Medal in his last year of his Apprenticeship which is a prestigious award in his sector and since finishing has been nominated for the UK Maritime awards for being an outstanding apprentice.

Aaron successfully got to attend a SkillElectric National Qualifier, at Eastleigh College with approximately another 12 competitors. We didn’t get to know the results on the day.
Aaron will be able to provide the details of the task he had to complete on the day.

Alfie completed his apprenticeship with his family firm, S J Quick and Sons Ltd Alfie gained a Distinction grade on his apprenticeship and has now progressed onto Site Carpentry Apprenticeship Standard Level 3 with us.

Elliot is coming to the end of his Apprenticeship. He will achieve his Level 3 in plumbing and heating and become a fully qualified gas engineer.
Elliot has also won the UK HIP learners championship in 2023. becoming the Number 1 in the UK for plumbing apprentices. With this He has also made the finals of the World Plumbing championships And will be competing for Britain in the finals as one of the favourites. Elliot will go on to bigger things in industry with many prestigious job opportunities.

Jamie joined us from school on our level 1 study programme, progressing to level 2 & 3.
He has now completed level 3 with a Merit grade, and has secures an apprenticeship to continue his qualifications in September

Dima arrived in the UK with his wife and daughter after fleeing Ukraine and they
were welcomed by a generous host family in Cornwall.
Through hard work and dedication, Dima and his family have been making
impressive progress in learning the English language, which has led them to reach
fantastic milestones.
He initially enrolled in a welding course, improving his English and later pursuing a
full-time Adult Diploma in Carpentry, excelling in his coursework and gaining
valuable skills.
His ultimate goal was to transition from his previous job on a production line at a
meat factory to the carpentry industry. After a rigorous three-stage interview
process, he secured a position with Nine Zero Carpentry & Joinery in Cornwall, where
he has already begun working with the joiners.

Over the course of her studies, she has developed valuable skills in leadership, coaching, and the planning and delivery of outdoor activities.

Bill is an outstanding adult learner who has excelled throughout the course and is a valuable asset to the programme. He will begin his extended work placement in April with our employer ambassador, Jay Dorman, of Canoe Cornwall.

Billie-Jo achieved a 1st Class Honours degree in Tournament Golf through her three years of study with Tournament Golf College, alongside progressing from a 2 handicap to +3 in he final year. She has since completed an MRes Sport & Exercise Science (Derby University) and is still studying a PHD Golf Biomechanics (Derby University), alongside turning Professional in 2022. Recently, Billie-Jo realised her dream of attain a Ladies European Tour card, the first TGC graduate to do so, scooping the LET access Player of the year 2024. She has and will continue to be a tremendous ambassador for TGC but for aspiring young female golfers across the UK as she has had to work extremely hard to achieve her performance goals and to continue to maintain incredible academic standards alongside this is a true testament to her character.

Becca’s remarkable journey with us is a testament to her dedication and determination. Over the past two years, she has not only completed our intensive training program but also pursued her passion for canoeing and climbing by joining the local canoe club and climbing walls. Her hard work has paid off, earning her national governing body awards in both paddlesport and climbing.

Josh studied a level 3 extended diploma in sport at Duchy College. While studying he completed his FA level 1 qualification in coaching football and gained part time employment alongside his studies. Upon completing the 2 year diploma Josh joined Argyle Community Trust as an apprentice sports coach. Josh completed the apprenticeship and gained full time employment with the trust. Over the past few years Josh has gained more experience and has worked his way up in the Trust, recently appointed emerging talent centre co-lead for female football.

Chelsea joined Duchy College Stoke Climsland after completing a Level 2 Sport diploma at Petroc College. Chelsea is a keen footballer and joined Duchy College to study her level 3 diploma in order to be part of our female football development programme in partnership with Plymouth Argyle Community Trust.

Jack relocated to Cornwall from Uganda in order to study the Sport programme here at Duchy Stoke Climsland. Jack is part of our Football Development Programme in partnership with Plymouth Argyle Community Trust.

During the covid lockdown I decided I wanted a change in career & my passion was exercise,
particularly the benefits of exercise. So I began by doing the Gym Instructor course followed by the
Personal Training course. These courses allowed me to work within a commercial gym as a self
employed Personal Trainer building up a good client base. It was great to see your clients progress &
achieve more than they thought they could. However I knew I also wanted to work with people who
didn’t know the benefits of exercise or felt their health status was a reason to avoid exercise. So the
very clear route to take next was to do the Exercise Referral course. This is where everything
changed for me, I couldn’t wait to help show people that even with health conditions exercise would
be beneficial for them. Learning about a variety of health conditions, the medication & side effects
gave us the knowledge to prescribe the appropriate exercise for clients. What was really great about
this course was that we got to work with real referral clients at Par Running Track. This enabled us to
put what we were learning into practice with real clients living with real conditions taking a variety
of medications. We spent a number of weeks working with our client putting them through
appropriate exercise sessions, progressing or regressing where necessary. This really helped with
feeling more confident & being able to imagine how we could utilise this qualification in the real
world.
After gaining this qualification I applied for & got a job within the NHS as a Physiotherapy Support
Worker. I now work with a variety of patients using exercise to support their individual journey for
example, recovery after injury/surgery, return to sport or simply managing activities of daily living.
Without my qualifications none of this would have been possible, I’m so glad I made the decision to
attend the college & follow my dreams.

1) What did you study, which campus and when?
HND Adventurous Activity Management at Duchy College Stoke Climsland in
1999-2002.
2) Why did you decide to study this course? Did you decide to retrain or change an
existing career for this pathway?
For professional as well as personal reasons. I wanted train to be an outdoor
pursuits instructor.
It has been suggested to me in the past that I retrain in something else but the
person who suggested it doesn’t understand the purpose of what I chose to do or
value the skills that I have learnt or what I’m able to do.
3) Are you still working in this industry & what is the best bit about it?
Not at the moment, but I am working on projects on the side to keep my hand in
things. Such as volunteer mentoring on surf therapy courses with young people and
also occasionally working ad-hoc on ski trips predominantly with school groups.
The best thing about it is knowing your enacting change and making a difference
to others but also yourself.
4) What advice do you have for students wanting to study a similar career as
yours?
Know what you want to do within it and know where you want to go with it.
Really believe in what it is that you’re doing.
5) What is your current job role & company?
I currently work in events and hospitality and have done so since 2015. I am
looking to go back into the outdoor adventure/education sector in a more long term
and permanent capacity than seasonal.
6) Have you always had a passion for working in this industry?
Yes, it’s all I wanted to do since I left school. I wanted to pass on the benefits of
what I’d had from having been on an outdoor personal development course. I knew
that it works and needed to prove it.

I’m going to try and visit him with the learners but he was saying how the course changed his life and he really enjoyed it.

Hannan was a work based higher education learner who was enrolled on to our HNC Marine Engineering study program by the MOD as part of his apprenticeship studies. The program required the learners to attend for three days every six weeks over two years, completing 3 modules per year. The learners were based across the country and Hannan travelled down from HMNB Clyde (Faslane) on the Gare Loch near Glasgow to study with us. He has completed his apprenticeship and is now in full time employment with the MOD, based in Faslane. Hannan attended the Graduation ceremony with his parents on 15th November where we had time to chat and offer our congratulations.

He has offered some of his time to volunteer with us in the future to enhance and benefit for his career choices as well as working on his own vessel.

I was very passionate about marine mammals and when going to university was an option for me, I
knew I wouldn’t be happy studying anything other than marine biology. After my course I went to
study a BSc, got my first paid job with ORCA, Organisations cetacea and then went on to study an
MSc which then lead me to working as a Marine Mammal Observer/Passive Acoustic Monitor
operator, carrying out mitigation for marine mammals. This lead me to working for a company
specialising in marine mammals acoustics, I then moved to work in marine mammal consultancy,
focusing on potential impacts mainly from offshore renewable projects

I studied Marine Aquaculture FdSc from 2004-2006, which I think was only the second year the
campus at Newquay was running. I don’t think the course exists anymore but it was fantastic!
My route to where I am has been pretty long and winding, but everything I’ve done has helped me
along the way to where I am now. I think the best advice I could give is to follow your interests
wherever they may take you – for example, I spent a few weeks in the High Arctic last year, sailing to
79°N on a wooden tallship, living as similarly to the first polar explorers as possible! And also to not
limit yourself, it’s possible to use your uni course in a lot of different ways.

I’ve always wanted to join the military and take after my father who was a medic in
the army for 24 years. He was a big inspiration for me to join up and do something
along those lines.
“I had my heart set on joining the RAF. I found this course, came to a taster day at
the campus and thought: ‘This is the course for me.’
“The taster day was great. I really enjoyed the mud run that we did. Actually, not a lot
of people enjoy that element of the day, but I did – it’s more of a second-hand fun
type of thing, where you enjoy it once you’ve done it.
My favourite part of the course is all of the employer engagement we get, including
ex-students coming in as well.
We get lots of opportunities to do so many things, such a week away with the army.

I wanted to do this course because I want to join the police, hopefully after I’ve
finished my two years here. This has been a really good way to get some good
knowledge on what it’s going to be like when I hopefully do join.
Personally, my favourite bit of the course is the CSI-related subjects we do in our
second year, such as fingerprinting and taking photos, as that’s what I want to do in
the future. It’s really good to be able to practice it now.

Declan Joined us for 3 years completing the level 2 course and two year Level 3 Diploma. When he joined us he struggled with social anxiety would not really talk, he weighed 138kg, had Tourette’s, ADHD and was introverted. Declan had aspirations to join the Army as an officer but unfortunately was not successful in his application. He changed his career options to Policing and worked hard on his course to achieve his goals. By the time he left the course he had dropped from 138kg to 95kg, his fitness significantly increased. His Tourette’s is virtually unnoticeable and he rarely has ticks, again his ADHD is also virtually unrecognisable. He has grown in confidence and can now conduct presentations to huge audiences. While on the course he achieved the best academic award for his course and also received the Leighton Bull Award for demonstrating the commando qualities Courage, Determination, Unselfishness and Cheerfulness in the face of adversity. In the last month of his course Declan was successful in applying for Devon and Cornwall Police and is now a front line Police officer in Bodmin. Declan also represents Devon and Cornwall Police as neuro diversity ambassador breaking down barriers for those wishing to join the police. He is an advocate for the course and often comes to college to interact with students.

Zara did Level 2 and Level 3 with us at the college a total of 3 years. She completed her second year of the 720 Diploma in June 2024. In her first year she achieved Top student on her course and made huge improvements in her fitness across both years. She is currently in the application process to Join the Royal Navy and wishes to join the warfare specialisation.

Owen Joined us in 2023 on our 540 Diploma completing the first year in June 2023 as the Top student for physical fitness in his class and the Top student for physical fitness across all courses. He lived in our accommodation at the college and was extremely keen on the course. Owen has aspirations to join the Royal Marines and the course has helped him develop his physical fitness, ultimately leading to his success in completing the selection process for the Royal Marines in July 2024. He will now Join The Commando Training Centre in September 2024.

Aliesha joined us from animal management and undertook two years if the MaPS course. In the second year Aliesha applied for the Army Medical Corps as a Combat Medical Technician joining training after her course in 2023. Aliesha Passed Phase one training and is currently in the last few months of training in a work placement at Derriford hospital. On completion she will be attached to an Army unit.

Hermione Joined us in September 2023 on our level 3 Diploma with aspirations to join the Army in the Household cavalry. Hermione started her application while with us and after a successful assessment centre joined the Army before the end of her course but worked hard to complete all work before she left. Hermione undertook initial training at ATC Catterick where she was the only female in her intake. During training she out performed many of her male counterparts and eventually passed out of training with her chosen unit The Household Cavalry Blues and Royals. Hermione is currently in phase two training at The Armoured Centre in Bovington before undertaking ceremonial duties in London. While at college Hermione undertook the Army look at life, daily physical training, Hierarchy and Routines, Discipline and EDI which she has said all helped her transition into the Army and her ultimate success.

I really enjoyed my time on the course, it helped me a lot! The course really allowed
me to prepare and develop ready for training. the time on the course at Duchy was
invaluable. I would definitely recommend the course to anyone looking to join the
services. the staff knowledge and experience is second to none

I did a full-time course at Bicton for a year, but I chose to do an apprenticeship in my second year so I could gain more practical experience in the workplace. A lot of what I do involves hand-eye coordination and practical skills. I find learning on the job much easier than writing things down on paper and thinking about how to do them. Being able to actually do the work in the moment makes a big difference.
The College and my employer stay in close contact, often talking weekly about what I’m learning at college and what I’m doing in the workplace

My advice to anything thinking of becoming an apprentice is to go for it. If you really
want to do it, then what’s stopping you? Just go and enjoy it. And if you don’t like it,
what’s the worst that can happen? You’ll just have to start something else. If you
want to do an apprenticeship, you should go for it – you can do an apprenticeship in
almost anything.

Wendy was an adult learner on the RHS Level 2 Principles of Horticulture 2023/24 and last month she and a friend climbed Everest to raise money for charity. An incredible achievement!!

Having dropped out of school in year twelve, I believed higher education was out of reach
forever. However, after a few years working on a project in Northern Ireland, helping adults with
learning difficulties find employment, I felt a longing for more. Although uncertain about my
academic path, my passion for surfing led me to Cornwall College’s Surf Science course. Despite
lacking formal qualifications, admissions pointed me to their Extended Science program, which I
gladly joined and was accepted into. The excellent instruction in mathematics, physics, and
biology there spurred my interest in pursuing a BSc. in life sciences. Today surfing is still my
passion but for work I followed an academic path in biology.

My course had a great group of keen like-minded individuals which made a great atmosphere for college days. The staff were excellent as was the course material. We had multiple farm visits and met. Lot of interesting farms and farmers who I am still in contact with now.
Thank you for filling out the questions, it will help us understand a little bit about your time with us at The Cornwall College Group.

After the lockdowns of 2020/21 I decided I needed a new start and a break away from the music
industry where I’d been previously working. Being outdoors and immersed in nature had been a big
help during the pandemic, and I’d volunteered for the National Trust with the ranger team many
years ago and enjoyed it, but it hadn’t been the right time in my life to retrain. I decided that I had to
make it the right time and started researching ways into the industry and this course seemed the
obvious first step.

Ive worked in most horticultural sectors including farming, forestry and conservation but I’m
currently a fruit and vegetable grower, author and apparently a social media influencer as ‘The Hairy
Horticulturist’.
I’m proud of a few things that studying horticulture has allowed me to do- becoming a BBC natural
history cameraman filming British wildlife, creating and running a pub kitchen garden and writing my
first book, Sow Grow Gather which was published worldwide in 2022.

Level 2 Commis Chef Apprenticeship at Cantina, Porthleven

Nathan works with Executive Chef Guy Owen at St Enodoc Hotel. Recently worked the pop-up event at STAC in November 2024 with Guy as representatives of the team at St Enodoc.

Being a female in the industry is hard, but it makes you want to fight for it
even more. The College helps you explore all sides of manufacturing and engineering, makes me
realise there are plenty of options and it opens many doors for us in the future.

I am grateful for the support and guidance I received at Cornwall College Camborne. The
college has helped me build my confidence and discover my passion for photography.
Initially, I was interested in hairdressing in 2019 but later realised that Travel and Tourism
was the right path for me, which I started in September 2022. I am grateful for the
opportunity I had to study at Cornwall College and for the valuable suggestions that
helped me develop my photography skills.

Daniel studied the Professional Food Preparation NVQ3 at our Camborne campus & now owns his
own catering business ‘The Cornish Chef’!
Catering was always a big passion for Daniel; it was the only subject he could focus on at school and
the one he looked forward to.
After studying with us, Daniel climbed the ranks in various kitchens, learning from every chef he
worked with. When he felt prepared to venture out on his own, he launched ‘The Cornish Chef’, a
private hire catering service. Daniel also opened the café ‘Baker & Chef’ in Truro with his baker
colleague turned good friend Russell, which celebrated its one-year anniversary last month.
When asked about his favourite part of being a chef, Daniel said: “It has to be seeing the look on
people’s faces when they are enjoying something you have created.”

My career highlight was working alongside Wolfgang Puck at the Oscars. It was unbelievable to cook for all the stars! I wouldn’t be where I am now without the support from the College.

I study my nvq level 1-2 at your college, I can’t remember what year it was. I decided to study to give my food knowlege a boost, while I was working in Padstow, my passion for food was growing massively while studying and getting inspired by everyone around me at the college, from students to tutors. I am Executive Head chef at 1 Michelin star Restaurant Lyst in Denmark.

Nominated for Cornwall Apprenticeship Awards in the Healthcare and Childcare category. Winners announced on 7th February – will update the results then.

Karn started the course in April 2023 and has successfully passed her exam within 14 Months of an 18-24 month course. Karn works at SMILE TOGETHER (recent winner of the practice of the year award from the PROBE dental Awards 2024) and has been at the practice since 2018 as a receptionist, Karn soon realised she had a passion for dental nursing and changed role in 2022.

The support and guidance of the college staff, along with the comprehensive coursework, have helped me significantly to get closer to reaching my goal of becoming a dentist.

I’ve always been interested in tractors – I’ve been around them most of my life. My father worked with tractors and was a farmer for several years, so I’ve always had a passion for them. I like taking things apart and putting them back together, and an apprenticeship is a great way to earn money while learning. I thought, there’s no better place to do it, so I got involved.
I enjoy this apprenticeship because I get to work with electrics and new technology in modern tractors and machinery. Learning how to apply this knowledge to the job is really helpful. Plus, earning while you learn makes a big difference. The best advice I can give anyone thinking of being an apprentice is to just get stuck in. The knowledge you gain will pay off so much in the long run: you never lose it. Even if you go on to do something else, that knowledge stays with you. You earn while you learn, and you’ve just got to get on and do it – otherwise, you’ll regret it in the long run.

I chose an apprenticeship because I wanted the work experience alongside learning
on the job. I think that’s how I learn best. As part of the apprenticeship, I’ve developed problem-solving skills, learned how to
use a variety of different tools, and improved my teamwork, leadership, and
communication skills. The reason I would recommend doing an apprenticeship is that you gain so many
transferable skills. These are skills that you can take with you to different jobs, and
they’ll benefit you throughout your entire career. The advice I’d give to anyone considering an apprenticeship is to go for it!

I chose an apprenticeship because I like to learn while being paid. I thought it was a
great ethos, and a great opportunity to gain the skills and experience needed for the
job without building up loads of debt like you would at university. It’s a really good
way to get into hands-on work straight away, rather than having to do the academic
side first. I’ve learned a lot of different skills in my apprenticeship. I’ve learned how to work
efficiently in a team and ensure that a job runs smoothly at all times, while also
focusing on health and safety. Making sure everyone on your team is safe is a huge
part of the job here at A&P. A lot of our work involves big lifts, from two-and-a-half-
tonne lifts up to 25-tonne lifts, where you have to be on your feet at all times, staying
aware and making sure no one gets hurt.

I chose to do an apprenticeship because it’s great to learn skills and get paid at the
same time. It’s in an industry I enjoy, doing things I love; I like working with my hands, so it’s a great opportunity for me to learn how things work while earning a
wage. I’ve learned quite a few skills in my apprenticeship, including working with hand
tools, power tools and diagnostic equipment. The advice I’d give to someone doing an apprenticeship is to go for it. There’s
nothing stopping you from learning the career you want. Going into this
apprenticeship, I already had some background knowledge, so it has been more
about topping up my skills and building on what I’d learned from previous courses.

Hi, my name is Beau. I’m working for Dan C B Tyres and I’m studying a Light Vehicle course at Camborne College

Lizzy is the first female to complete a heavy vehicle level 3 apprenticeship with an independent training provider.

From Welding, to cutting, to taking engines apart; we learn all the basic skills and take it to our workplace. We’re very fortunate to have a lot of different companies who work closely with Bicton College, and brands such as Electude delivering their training. Their technology is truly amazing, we’re extremely lucky to have these facilities here and I can’t wait to learn more about all the diagnostics equipment. I’ve had such a great experience being a student here, I’ve made so many friends, we share the same interests and doing an apprenticeship with Hamblys is great because we get a lot of theory and practical time at the college and bring those skills to our workplace.

I really enjoyed the CMG Academy during my time at Pool Academy. Cornwall College has always been supportive, showing me all the different options available. I feel like I’m on the right path to achieving my future goals.

I completed the CMG Academy when I was at Redruth School, and it gave me such a great head start in my career. I’ve just started my apprenticeship with Wes and am really enjoying it already.

My workplace and tutor are really supportive in helping me whenever I need it. I’m always learning something new and I’m always given the opportunity to have a go.

Becca was a quiet member of the class when she first enrolled with us, but straight away was kind, studious and supportive of her peers.

Megan came to the college with good grades but low self esteem. She struggled with mental health issues and a severe lack of confidence caused by years of bullying during her time at school. She was quiet and timid and reluctant to show her pre-existing & extensive knowledge during the first few weeks of college. However, by the end of her time with us she was one of the bubbliest, most confident and outspoken members of the group, helping to organise charity events, engaging with trips, guest speakers and visitors and even challenging behaviour of other learners on campus. She achieved high grades for all of her assignments and outstanding reports from her time in placement where she completed over 750 hours of work experience. Megan went on to leave college with the full diploma and two separate job offers. She is now a fully qualified practitioner who works across two early years settings in her local area, where she supports children with various levels of need and their families.

Grace has been at the college for 3 years now, starting as a Level 2 and working her way up to the level 3 and fully qualified with her license to practice. She has worked hard on the level 3 to improve her grades from a C to a B overall through perseverance and determination to work in the early years sector. Grace has been popular in her work placement, completing 750 hours, and securing employment as an EYP in the baby room of her local nursery. She has also been the CCSU President for the past year.

Saraya has gained relevant experience organising and delivering exhibitions and community workshops as part of her personal development and student work experience at our various exhibitions, Trevithick Day and the Movember fundraiser. During this time Saraya realised that she would like to work in education and use her creativity as a Primary school teacher. We were thrilled that Saraya had found such a strong vocation and in no time at all she had been offered a place with the University of Brighton for a BA in Primary Education. Saraya is taking a gap year this year to explore Europe, giving her the opportunity to widen her cultural knowledge and of course have some well deserved fun! Saraya has already passed her driving test and is now able to travel to Brighton under her own speed. We cannot wait to see how Saraya progresses in the future. This really is testament to the employability and progression offered within the Art and Design Extended Diploma where she learnt about client management, project management, research, communication, academic writing, event management, workshop delivery, social action and indeed explored all aspects of Art and Design,

How flexible the course is, allowing you to experiment with any type of media and choose which field of work you wish to pursue. With great facilities, workshops, and the individual space provided to create and show your work.

I am so incredibly proud of a former student of this college, Jordan Breden, who has been shortlisted and selected for her amazing photography to be exhibited at the National Portrait Gallery in London. she is showing four images all from the same series depicting the struggles with mental health (using her own family who supported the project). I have seen the whole series of images and they are amazing and so personal to her and so incredibly powerful. There is a really empowering story here, from her own struggles through her early years, which were unbelievable to say the least, to where she is now only two years after leaving Cornwall College. I believe her coming in and sharing her amazing journey in such a short space of time to other learners also struggling with mental health problem would be inspiring, and certainly perhaps a success story for marketing if they do such a thing as talk about past students achievements.

I have learnt so many new skills that can take me so far in the performing arts industry. The course
is such a supportive environment to work in; it makes me feel like I can do anything.

Rose has several unconditional offers to study Architecture at University, she is autistic and has studied L3 Engineering Maths as an in-fill, she is course rep

Alumni – recently came in and gave a talk to current learners about her qualification journey and then invited a group of students to visit her newly opened salon “Glow Skin by Tamara”. Is happy to be contacted for any alumni reasons.

Karen has worked tremendously hard this year to complete their level 3 Body and Spa and create a new business. Whilst continuing a year of study Karen also completed short courses to support starting a new business. Karen also runs a children entertainment business to support her family whilst studying this year with us.

Previously, I studied A-Levels at a different college but I’ve now gone onto an apprenticeship route because it’s more hands-on. The thing I like most about doing an apprenticeship is getting paid to work and learn at the same time, so it’s more beneficial for you long-term and you’re still getting a qualification while working. If anyone is unsure on what to do, I would recommend looking at apprenticeships, especially through Cornwall Colleges. They’ll give you everything you need and all the support you’ll ever need. Before I joined Cornwall College, I didn’t really know what I wanted to do, and the staff at Cornwall College helped me find the right course for me and put me in touch with an employer. It is now thanks to them I have a great apprenticeship with TClarke.

This project has been a game-changer for me. The skills I’ve gained here extend beyond personal choices; they help guide me to actively make greener decisions which will positively contribute to a more environmentally responsible industry