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Ian Byford
Sports Science

To find out why Ian chose Southend, and what he learned during his time there, simply click on the questions to the right.

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Why did you choose to study in Southend?
I chose to study at South East Essex College as it was convenient for me. I only lived around the corner and I wanted to be local. All this made it the ideal place for me to study.
What course did you study and what have you achieved?

I studied a BSc in Sports Science and since qualifying I’ve started a career as a teacher. I’m currently at one of the local high schools – in fact, it’s the school I used to go to! It’s worked out really nicely.

I’ve grown in confidence since being at the College. I had loads of opportunities too and if I wanted to go on and do something else now, my degree would enable me to do that.

So my degree has given me confidence, enabled me to a job I love and if ever I did want a change in career my degree would allow it… so win, win, win!

How did you find returning to the learning environment as a mature student?
When I returned to the learning environment, it worked out really well. The staff were absolutely amazing. I had a really good tutor and the head of subject was fantastic. He understood my situation as a mature student and gave me some really good ideas, advice and feedback.
How did studying at South East Essex College fit in with your day-to-day life?

Coming to South East Essex College fitted in really well with my lifestyle.

I was a homeowner, so it enabled me to come to college and get my education, whilst also working to finance living at home.

Obviously that is a big deal these days, with the average student coming out with £15-20,000 of debt. I cut that down by at least half, so studying in Southend worked out really well.

What would you say to other people interested in returning to their studies in Southend?

If someone was thinking of coming to Southend to study as a mature student, I would say go for it – it’s fantastic.

The staff are brilliant, financially it makes sense… so why not?