“I joined this course with little to no experience with drawing or design but had an interest in both. The course provided me with opportunities to learn different techniques and methods that helped me understand the key principles of 3D design. 

“Throughout the course I have learned how to use markers and make models, which I found challenging, but my tutors and lecturers were constantly pushing me, which helped me reach my goal of Distinction star.

“I am optimistic for the future because I know the skills I have learned in this course will heavily aid me in university and give me the skills necessary within the field of architecture.”

“I had such a great experience of being an Access student at Kingston College, and for me it was a very precious period of time because it increased my level of knowledge and awareness of the importance of my future. The course developed many aspects in my life as I became more independent, patient and knowing how to deal with uncomfortable situations, because there were times where I felt stressed and anxious due to the intensity of the course.

“I am well prepared to start university this year to study Dental Hygiene. The Access course immensely increased my confidence and communication skills with people as it is so important for student life.”

Former Access to Science student Camila Segura Tassara went on to graduate with a 1st Class Honours degree in Nutrition & Food Science at the University of Reading.

She says: “I received a lot of support as an Access student at Kingston College, all lecturers were helpful not only academically but were also invested in us as individuals to prepare us for our future as professionals in our chosen career paths.

"The Access course may feel fast paced at times, but you will find it makes you a more independent learner and prepares you for academic and professional life! Make sure to go out of your comfort zone, participate and engage with lecturers as much as possible, I personally found this helped me understand what I was learning! Most important is you will make some great friendships along the way.”

"Completing the BA (Hons) Art and Design has opened new ventures for me to explore. After a long break in my career, I felt that returning to a profession was rather impossible. My course helped me restore my self-confidence. I started the course without any prior background in art and design and was unsure of how to accomplish it. But a well-designed course, tightly-knitted group, and individual mentoring enabled me to quickly adjust to my new professional course."

“I think attending the Foundation Degree (FdA) Art & Design is one of the best decisions I have made in many years. 

“Initially I was apprehensive of returning to studies through lack of confidence and minimal skills, I needn't have worried. The team of tutors guided me through each module and were there to help me at any stage if required. Not only are they adept with their teaching skills, but they also fully involve themselves with the students, continuously raising our confidence. As a result of this, I feel that I have produced work of a very high standard and that my knowledge of Art & Design has increased dramatically.”

 

"I’ve enjoyed my time at Kingston College. I’ve had great support from my tutors and I find my motor vehicle course enjoyable."

“The course is fascinating with lecturers that are very knowledgeable about their subjects and a perfect choice for any science based undergraduate course. “Whilst the course is tough, it's rewarding to do well and the lecturers are all very helpful and willing to aid you. There's also a lot of content on the college Moodle that can answer nearly any question. “The course has given me bucketloads of knowledge about the sciences that will help me in my Palaeontology course at university, with all sorts of knowledge that I'll need to rely on at uni. Enjoy the course, I know I have!"

My experience has been really great. I chose Kingston College because I heard how good the beauty courses are. It benefits my future and helps me in every way with my dream of wanting my own beauty business.

"The course has made me think in different ways, analyse data and information, plan better and be more self aware."

Pippa King, Lead Nurse for Safer Staffing at Epsom & St Helier University Hospitals NHS Trust, who graduated with a First Class Honours Degree and Distinction in our Chartered Manager Degree Apprenticeship

"If you are in management or pre senior position and looking to gain a broader understanding of all business aspects, I would recommend attending this course. You can put the principles straight into your business practice."

Hannah is Director of Membership and Partnerships at signing charity, Makaton and is one of our Chartered Manager Degree Apprentices

"The people I have met so far whilst completing my course, both students and tutors have been amazing. I can't recommend the college/university and the course highly enough. As an adult learner who has been out of the academic environment for well over a decade, I have found the move back into education much easier than I expected, this I attribute to everyone involved."

John Betteridge, Chartered Manager Degree Apprentice and Director at JVB Solutions 

Why did you choose Kingston College?

Through a recommendation from an alumni.

Why did you choose the course / subject? 

I wanted to become a Primary School Teacher.

What are the most enjoyable aspects or highlights of your course? 

Making life long friendships and receiving some amazing learning opportunities, great support from tutors and having someone believe in you.

Did you complete any work experience and if so how did it help with your studies? 

I worked through my Foundation and BA year at a setting wher I was already working. It really enabled me to put the theory I was learning into practice. 

What are your hopes/goals/plans for the future? 

I wanted to become a Primary School Teacher. I went on to study a BA in Early Years Teaching and Learning at Kingston Hill. Then I did SCITT training. I now work for a lovely school as an Early Years Teacher (EYT). I teach the Nursery Class and am so happy with where I am now.

Do you have any advice for other potential students looking to enrol? 

This course will change your life. It transformed mine and I couldnt be happier. I now feel confident in delivering first class learning experiences. I have really improved my pedagogy and have a deeper understanding of the Early Years. I have recently been given a leadership role within the school and am using the knowledge I gained during my time at Kingston College and uni to support my new role and develop my provision. Thank you so much to everyone at Kingston College, Gill Plumb and the ladies were fantastic tutors and really supported us with everything and beyond. Brilliant, 100% do it.

 

BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Art & Design - Photography

Awarded: Triple Distinction* (D*D*D*), the equivalent of 3 A*s at A Level

Chloe studied BTEC Level 3 Extended Diploma in Photography at Kingston College and previously attended school in Spain. She is now studying a BA (Hons) Fashion Media and Promotion at University of the Creative Arts.

“I don’t think I would have been capable to achieve such high grades if not for my tutors, especially Photography lecturer, Estelle Vincent, who pushed me to work as hard as I could. Throughout this experience I found what I really enjoy doing, and I also found myself. It also led me to the course I am now undertaking but most of all it showed me how I needed to stand out and share my ideas. The course itself is really flexible and unique, it lets you create anything and it fulfils your desires for your future career.”

“Production Arts at Kingston College is a great way to kickstart your ambitions into the technical theatre industry as you get to work hands on a wide variety of shows all year round.”

Second year student, Jack, has received offers at specialist Higher Education Institutions including Rose Bruford and Mountview, both leading UK drama schools with worldwide reputations for excellence in education and specialist training. Jack will be studying BA (Hons) Theatre Production Arts - Lighting at Mountview this September.

Sheryl Skyrme, Deputy Head of School/Head of Section Production and Performance Arts at Kingston College commented: "Jack will be an asset to the course as he is to ours. Well done Jack!"

“Enrolling at Kingston College was the best choice for me. I study in a practical work environment with staff who have experience in the Arts industry that I aspire to work in. There is a range of different types of facilities, learning hands on with full access to the theatre. You learn practically through performances and assessments, to which you have to adapt to, and it broadens your knowledge of the theatre. The staff here are caring, dedicated and passionate. They support you through the course and help you achieve the best possible outcomes.”

Lily has recently received offers at specialist Higher Education Institutions including Backstage Academy and East 15. 

Each year, the famous inventor and photographer Eadweard Muybridge is honoured in a special week-long festival held by Kingston Museum. Our BTEC Level 3 Interactive Media & Games Design students have provided screenings of Muybridge inspired short animations for visitors to enjoy.

Gaining hands on experience in the College salon is one of the best experiences of the course. From putting all the previous cutting skills and knowledge in the training sessions to working on a client in a ‘real life’ scenario is unbeatable! This is where I personally felt that all the theory and previous practice sessions really started to make sense.

Interacting with the tutors on the course has always been positive as well as being guided by their years of experience and knowledge is invaluable as a new student. The tutors guided me at a pace that I was comfortable with and often with great patience as well as humour to get myself and the other students through the training. As a result of achieving my barbering qualification, this has offered new opportunities in my current role as a makeup artist and hair stylist. I am now studying Level 2 hairdressing to build on these skills and enhance my knowledge in hairstyling.