Angela achieved D*D*D*, equivalent to 3 A* grades at A Level: "The staff made me feel that I belonged and the supportive environment helped me grow in confidence and develop my passion for science. The practical side stood out to me because I knew I wanted to build confidence in the lab and develop real scientific skills, not just memorise content.” After taking a gap year to travel, Angela plans to study a Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree at Aston University: "The course has given me a strong foundation for university and my future career in healthcare.”
Why did you choose Kingston College for your course?
When I came into Kingston College for enrolment, I felt welcomed straight away. I felt I would be more free to study and be myself. The staff really make students feel like they are in the right place and that they actually belong there. I liked the environment because it felt supportive but also motivating. It made me feel more confident about studying science.
Why did you choose a BTEC?
I chose a BTEC because I liked the fact that it was both practical and academic at the same time. I wanted to gain strong lab skills while also getting a qualification equivalent to A Levels. I was really interested in learning how to write detailed lab reports, carry out experiments properly and become comfortable working in a laboratory environment. For me, it felt like the best balance. I’ve always been interested in labs and healthcare, and the BTEC Applied Science gave me the chance to explore both. I liked that we didn’t just learn theory, we actually applied it in practicals, which made the science feel more real and easier to understand.
What stood out to you about the course when you applied?
What stood out to me most was how broad the course was. It covers different areas of science and gives you experience with both practical lab work and theory. I liked that it could lead into different careers and university courses, especially healthcare and pharmacy. The practical side also stood out to me because I knew I wanted to build confidence in the lab and develop real scientific skills, not just memorise content.
What have you enjoyed most about studying here?
What I’ve enjoyed most is definitely the practical side of the course and being in the lab. I enjoy doing experiments and seeing the theory actually applied in real situations instead of only learning from textbooks. I’ve also enjoyed meeting different people on the course and working together during practicals because it helped build my confidence and teamwork skills.
What skills have you developed that you didn’t expect?
I expected to improve my lab skills, but I didn’t realise how much my teamwork, communication and time management would improve too. The course has also helped me become more confident asking questions, explaining scientific ideas and writing detailed lab reports. I’ve learnt how to work under pressure and meet deadlines properly.
How have the tutors or facilities helped you develop as a student?
At the start of the course, I didn’t have a lot of confidence because of previous experiences, but the tutors really helped change that for me. My chemistry teacher especially made me develop a stronger passion for science and learning again.
The tutors explain concepts from the beginning and make students feel comfortable asking questions. The labs and practical facilities also helped me become more confident carrying out experiments and using scientific equipment properly.
Has the course helped build your confidence or motivation?
Yes, definitely. The course helped me become more confident academically and practically. At the beginning, I doubted myself more, but now I feel much more comfortable in the lab, writing reports and understanding scientific concepts. It also motivated me because I could actually see myself progressing and improving throughout the course.
What are your plans after finishing the course?
After finishing the course, I plan to take a gap year to travel and learn some new skills and gain more life experience. After that, I will be continuing my studies at Aston University on their Master of Pharmacy (MPharm) degree. This course has already helped prepare me for that because it gave me a strong understanding of both the theoretical and practical side of science, especially organic chemistry and laboratory work.
How do you feel this course is preparing you for university, an apprenticeship or a career?
The course has prepared me well because it teaches both independent learning and practical skills. I’ve learnt how to write detailed lab reports, manage deadlines, work in teams and apply scientific knowledge properly. I also feel more prepared for university because the workload and practical work helped me become more organised and disciplined with my studies.
What would you say to someone thinking about studying Science at Kingston College?
I would say don’t settle for the minimum because the course can really help you grow if you put effort into it. Ask questions, speak to your classmates and get involved in opportunities around the college. The course becomes really interesting when you engage with it properly, especially the practical side. Kingston College has a lot to offer, so take advantage of the support, enrichment opportunities and experiences available.
