Student to embark on digital career in computing
Callum Churches, computing student at Burton and South Derbyshire College (BSDC) is the latest star of the College’s ‘Your Life. Your Rules.’ campaign.
The series of case study videos showcase the journeys of BSDC students, aiming to encourage prospective learners to consider vocational education as a viable and enriching post-GCSE option.
Callum’s story demonstrates the benefits of vocational learning and the opportunities available at BSDC’s University Centre.
Having completed his Level 3 Networking and Cyber Security course, Callum is now pursuing a Foundation Degree in Computer Science at the College, with plans to top-up to a bachelor's degree.
During his Level 3 studies, Callum had the opportunity to study additional qualifications, including CCNA (Cisco Certified Network Associate) and Cisco Cyber Ops to take his skills to the next level. He also completed an industry placement at JTF Wireless, which led to paid employment.
Callum said: “I’ve always had a keen interest in computing and I’ve really enjoyed my studies. I have developed teamwork and presenting skills, as well as soft skills that I can take into the workplace.”
Callum’s dedication and passion for computing have driven him to continue his education at BSDC’s University Centre.
He said: "I am now doing a Foundation Degree in Computer Science at the College and would like to top-up to the bachelor's degree to enhance my job prospects. I would like to get into Network Administration, managing a company’s network of computers and systems; that’s my goal."
Burton and South Derbyshire College’s computing facilities have recently been enhanced with the introduction of a new Cyber Security Lab through Stronger Towns funding.
The state-of the-art facilities provide learners with access to the high-spec technology, training and collaborative learning to develop the skills and knowledge they will need to protect and secure organisational networks.
The lab hosts separate servers, including four small individual servers. Learners can take part in penetration tests and virtual hacking, conducted within a legal and ethical framework, to give them the cyber security skills to protect companies against malicious cyber-attacks in the future.
The College's Computing Department has a strong track record of success, with students having secured gold and bronze medals in the prestigious WorldSkills competitions over the last few years.
The College is also a member of the EC-Council (International Council of E-Commerce Consultants), which offers access to a wide array of industry-specialist resources, enriching the learning experience and ensuring that students are equipped with the skills and knowledge necessary for thriving careers in cyber security.
Encouraging others to follow a similar path, Callum added: "I would 100 per cent say to come to college – you get more opportunities here. The staff are friendly, the facilities are great and you gain a deeper understanding of the industry."
The college’s ‘Your Life. Your Rules.’ campaign is showcasing a series of current full-time students sharing their experience of vocational learning and how their learning journey so far is putting them on track to achieve their goals of university study or employment.
It aims to dispel common myths about vocational study and help potential learners and their parents better understand the options available after GCSEs.
