Spotlight on Talent: Aquila Picart

Studied: GCSE English and maths

Progression: Access to Health

Aquila Picart is on her way to pursue a career in nursing after passing her GCSE qualifications.  With a Grade 7 in English and Grade 5 in maths, she is progressing on to an Access to Health course at Walsall College.

Her results surpassed the grades she needed to be accepted on to her course, which had been Aquila’s aim.

“I’m quite competitive with myself, so wanted to do better than the Grade 4 entry requirements of my course,” said Aquila.  “I’d always wanted a career in nursing but circumstances took my life in another direction and I also had children.  Now that my daughter and two sons are a bit older, I see this as my time to do what I’ve always wanted to.”

Like many adults over the last 18 months, Aquila juggled her studies with a range of family commitments, including home schooling and caring for her daughter when she was ill.  Despite the challenges, Aquila is looking ahead and feeling confident about the opportunity to begin her higher education studies.

“My GCSEs were a good launchpad for my Access course,” continued Aquila.  “I’m used to the college environment and back in study mode.

“I’m quite excited for what’s to come.”

Aquila’s advice to future GCSE students at Walsall College is to make the most of the support available for teachers.

“I would encourage others coming back into education not to be afraid to approach their teachers,” she said.  “They’re accommodating and supportive.  You certainly aren’t a burden to them.  You won’t be ridiculed in class either if you get something wrong or want something clarified.

“My success is in part down to them.  Yes, I’m the one that’s done all the work, but my teachers broke things down and guided me.

“I’m grateful to them for helping me move forward.”