What Do Havering Sixth Form College Students Say?

Ellie Elstone attended Raine’s Foundation School in Bethnal Green and joined the College in 2007 with GCSE grades of Ds, Es, Fs and Gs, starting on a Level 1 BTEC Introductory course. This is her story:

“When I first started at Havering Sixth Form College, I was a little worried and a bit nervous as I did not have many qualifications and was starting a new course, but I could not have been made more welcome.

I enrolled on the BTEC Introductory Certificate in Business, Retail and Administration. The college gave me lots of support throughout my course but I was also determined to achieve the best grades possible and to make the most of this opportunity to progress on to the next level.

I also passed the Adult Numeracy Certificate at Level 1 and 2, as well as the Award in Functional Skills English at Level 1 and 2 and had study support from the College’s Learning Zone, which really helped me.

I never thought it would be possible for me to study the BTEC National Diploma in Business as my GCSE grades were not good enough for me to do that, but choosing the BTEC Introductory course really helped me to develop and I achieved a Merit and a Distinction in my first year.

I progressed from the BTEC Introductory in Business to the BTEC First Diploma in Business and have now finally reached my goal in that I am currently studying the BTEC National Diploma in Business. I have been predicted to get good grades again and I am hoping to get a place at University.”

“College is great. I mean, everyone expects it to be just like school but it’s not. You can express yourself more freely and with the timetables, you can study at times that suit you best. It’s a great atmosphere where everyone can get along and study in a variety of ways that interest the minds of every student so you'll never get bored.” Sean Egan (ex Bower Park School)

“I have settled very well into Havering Sixth Form College and have made a variety of new friends, as the students of the college are extremely mature. The teachers try their best in order for you to reach your full potential and offer support, for example they hold extra support classes for students who wish to ask any questions and for those who require any help with the work they are currently doing in lessons. Havering Sixth Form has increased my confidence, as students are quite independent here and are treated as adults. The numerous clubs and facilities available mean there is always something the sixth formers are occupied with. Havering Sixth Form has made college life really worthwhile.” Kiran Sall (ex Langdon School)

“The college is a really nice place to learn and have fun at the same time. There is so much support from staff, the librarians, mentors in the Learning Zone and generally your form tutors. Though it's a full time Sixth Form College, the timetable enables you to have some appropriate freedom to relax or catch up on work.” Oluwakemi Quadri (ex Bower Park School)

“Havering Sixth Form College has a very warm and inviting atmosphere. The teaching quality is great and you can always find extra help when you need it. I wasn't too sure about some of the subjects I was taking, but once I started, they became my favourite!” Funmi Odedoyin (ex Eastbury School)

“It is very easy to settle down in college because the atmosphere here is great. It's a big change from school, because it’s bigger, there's more support, you gain more freedom and the tutors treat you like adults. I don't believe you can ever get bored here, because you aren’t being forced to do a subject that you don't like.” Tobi Akingbade (ex Abbs Cross School and Arts College)

“Coming to this college was a really good idea; I got to know so many new people, learn new topics, and most importantly, I got to know myself better - different revision methods, being independent, and generally knowing how to become a more mature, focussed student.”
Elizabeth Peters (ex Eastbrook School)

“The College is a great place for learning, as the atmosphere is brilliant. Teachers are very supportive and dedicated to helping and motivating students. Havering Sixth Form is the best place for you if you are highly motivated to your learning. The College offers a wide variety of courses, so you have the opportunity to choose your favourite, and therefore you really enjoy studying. You can also enjoy the free time your timetable gives you.” Ebele Ekwukoma (ex Eastbrook School)

"I have spent almost two years in this college and I do not have one regret. It is a great place to learn." Sabeha Begum (ex Langdon School)

“College is fantastic! Waking up every morning and choosing what to wear, being able to call the teachers by their first names, taking responsibility for your own learning... this list of great things goes on and on. The support you get when you need it is good and it is always available on request. College life is a great experience and meeting new people and being talked to as if you're an adult is one of the great benefits of going to this college. So far I have enjoyed my experience - preparing for the real world!” Mercy Aju (ex Redden Court School)

“When you get here, you may look at yourself like a little fish in a big ocean, but it certainly doesn't feel that way. The warm and welcoming atmosphere from all students and teachers alike will make you feel like you are part of the pack!” Eric Agyei (ex The Campion School)