[Freak Out]

I completely failed college where I used to live (A Levels), and I almost finished the two years, so you can image my hesitation in doing it again...

There's a HNC computing course which involves the following:

Information Systems Development, Introduction to Programming, Computer System & Networking Concepts, Introduction to Multimedia and Web Authoring, Information Systems Analysis & Design, Database Development, Web Site Development and Management.

I have no prior job experience but the main thing I want is to get an office job, not focused on Maths though, such as Excel and the like. It can include it but I don't want an office job involving advanced maths.

If I could get the necessary (paid) experience without going to college I'd do it, but can I? I would do the course if I didn't have to take moving out into consideration (moving out in a few months). If I could find a part time job that will pay me enough to rent a one bedroom flat in between my course I'd do it... But 2 years is a big commitment for someone who's tried it and failed it.

As you can see I'm really stuck.

[Prince94]

Firstly the availability of part time jobs is dependent on where you live. Do you live in a city like London, Manchester or Birmingham? Because there generally should be a great deal more job opportunities there than in out-of-town areas. Also with the UK economy as it is, incoming welfare/benefit changes, the competition for jobs is increasing greatly, so you have to search for jobs you might not have even considered (for example, i'm a part-time librarian). Also there may be government support for you possibly, so check it out to see if you qualify for any of the benefits first? Also by doing college again, you can avoid the mistakes you have made previously and not necessarily fail again. It would also show perserverance to future employers, and potentially uni?

Secondly, there are advanced apprenticeships available which are basically NVQ Level 3 (A-Level) standard and you usually only need GCSE qualifications to enter and not always A Levels. (Choose carefully, as some will use you as slaves, choose a respected company/apprenticeship). These apprenticeships include Microsoft Advanced Apprentriceship, and Capgemini Advanced Apprenticeship which are both UK wide and deal with IT/Computing areas. You will also be paid a wage and (not sure about the Microsoft one but the Capgemini one) you shold get a job afterwards. There are other apprenticeships lke this is where you can get your foot in the door without necessarily going to college, and usually have further progression courses such as a higher apprenbticeship (degree standard) (or you can leave to get a degree). The wage usually around £12000-£14 maybe £15000 (if you're lucky) should be enough to cover the possible cost of living or re-location. BT is also a possibility.

These course lengths usually vary (about 2 years usually maybe 3), and so you would probably need commitment. If you're getting a part-time job to support your 2 year college course, then make sure it's definitely a permanent contract, and a job you feel will still be there in 2 years, because you don't want to lose the job halfway through studies. Now I know you've failed it in the past, but it would be a new start whether you do the apprenticeship or the HNC course. You're always going to have major setbacks in your life, but it's your ability to overcome them and progress that defines you. There are some who've failed education and never even attempted to try again - just went straight to beenfits and never looked back, and I know failing A Levels can be a huge setback, so big respect to you for trying again. Good luck my friend

[Freak Out]

Thankyou very much, that's really helpful!

[sassy123]

I would say be careful with the apprenticeships.I am looking at it seems tough i appleid for one i was certain i would get an interveiw for.Did'nt happen i was gutted but its their lose i know i would have been great at it but i am going to apply at some i would not be happy in but i might as well you never know you may like it.

Also some are just cheap labour you will be shocked at some of them they are just using you E.g you can get them at subway, cleaning, shop assistants.I saw one it was £70 a week and they wanted you to work 40hours a week.It seems a common pattern of companys making a minimum wage job an Apprentice.

From your post i get the impression you would rather not go on for another college course.You could apply and if something comes up you don't have to do it.

Good luck x