Former School: Cape Cornwall
Courses: A Level Business, Economics and Mathematics
University: UWE Bristol studying BSC (Hons) Economics
Next Steps: Business and Economics Tutoring
After excelling in his A Levels at Penwith College, where his interest in Economics first sparked, Henry pursued his passion at UWE Bristol University, graduating with a First-Class Honours degree in Economics.
From a young age, Henry always enjoyed maths and he was eager to learn more about the business world. Through coming to several Penwith College open events, Henry knew which courses were right for him and aligned with his passions.
“As soon as I came to the open events, I knew that I wanted to do study A levels and which ones I wanted to do. It was quite nice to get like a welcoming to the college and know what to expect instead of throwing yourself straight into it.”
Choosing Penwith College was an easy decision for Henry, “Living in St Just, it was very nearby, and I also had good encounters with people who’ve been to Penwith and said it was great.”
Henry reflected on his college experience and said that studying Economics played a pivotal role in his decision to pursue the subject at university. He enjoyed how well his A Level Mathematics, Business, and Economics complemented one another, enhancing his overall understanding of the subjects.
“The teaching style in the economic classes was great. It had big group discussions, and we were always learning in a relaxed way where you could partake as much as you liked. Whether it was about the question at hand or what’s been going on in the new, the style of teaching was so enjoyable. With economics you can always relate it to something that’s going on in the world.”
After his first year at college, Henry did not achieve the A Level grades he had initially aimed for. Recognising his potential for greater success, he was motivated to reassess his approach to studying. With renewed determination and support from his lecturers, Henry committed fully to his academic studies.
“They were so supportive. Emma (Business and Economics lecturer) gave me so much work and put aside extra time before or after lecturers to help me.”
Henry felt highly supported by his college lecturers when completing his UCAS application, as they consistently encouraged and motivated him to meet a timely submission.
“They really made you actually do it which was great because I probably wouldn’t have actually done it on my own.”
The transition from college to university can be significant for many students, however, Henry felt that the independence students experience at Truro and Penwith College served as an important stepping stone in preparing for university life. He also found that the content covered in his Economics classes had equipped him exceptionally well for his studies at the university level.
“By doing A Level Economics, I was so prepared for university because I was ahead of everyone else.”
In his first year at university, Henry found that many of the topics being introduced were topics he had already covered during his time at college. This prior knowledge allowed him to progress at a faster pace compared to his classmates.
In July 2023, Henry graduated with his First-Class degree in Economics from UWE Bristol and then went on to gain a TEFL qualification. Utilising the knowledge and qualifications he has gained through University, he is now doing Business and Economics tutoring, working primarily with young people in sharing his expertise in the field. With his TEFL qualification, he aspires to teach English internationally, with plans to travel to Australia to further his work as a Business and Economics tutor.
During the summer months, Henry is also working in Sennen doing surf coaching. Since he started surf coaching he’s found that he really enjoys teaching.
“I enjoy 1 to 1 teaching and seeing that person thrive with me working with them.”
