Before joining Calderdale College to study Creative Media, Elliot was entirely home-educated and had no formal qualifications.

When Elliot turned 15, his family discovered the Early College Transfer programme and attended one of our open evenings – after that it was clear that this was Elliot’s future.

He explains: “I was interviewed by my brilliant tutor, who gave me a place on the Level 1 course in Creative Media, based on the strength of my online portfolio rather than the absence of any grades, which I am immensely grateful for.

“This gave me the opportunity to steadily progress through College right up to today, where I have been able to apply to universities including Brighton, Bristol, Falmouth, Leeds Arts, and NUA Norwich.

 “I have always worked hard and remained grateful to the staff of Calderdale College who really go out of their way to make sure that we students are given every opportunity to progress through education.”

Since joining, Elliot has progressed through our creative courses and his predicted final grade is a Distinction* at Level 3 in Art & Design. He has also completed his Functional Skills in English and Maths – the equivalent to two GCSEs.

He adds: “I’ve also had the opportunity to complete vocational work placements and, as a result, I was offered a place to study Illustration at Falmouth University, which I have accepted!

“All of this would never have been possible without the College – I would never have been able to pursue my dream of becoming a professional illustrator.”

If you’re interested in finding out more about our Early College Transfer options, please click here or contact us on admissions@calderdale.ac.uk