There's an education and training route for everyone after GCSEs and you don't have to follow one path.
Sam decided that A levels were right for him...
Sam studied A level Photography, Media and Sociology at Weymouth College before progressing to the London College of Communication to study photojournalism. He now works as a freelance photographer taking on commissions for companies such as:
- The New York Times
- Architectural Digest
- G F Smith Paper
- Hyde & Sleep
- The New York Times
- Architectural Digest
- G F Smith Paper
- Hyde & Sleep
Sam's career journey
- The Sir John Colfox Academy, Bridport
- A level Photography, Media and Sociology at Weymouth College
- BA in Photojournalism at the London College of Communication
What was your learning journey?
Being self-employed means that each day can look very different from the last. I can be doing anything from shooting portraits of factory workers for a magazine, photographing buildings for an architectural studio or travelling overseas for assignments that can last weeks at a time.
The variety of work and the ability to manage my own schedule is one of the many reasons that I love what I do.
What are you doing now?
Going on to study at A level played a big part in helping me pursue a career in the arts. My tutors helped to realise what was possible as they had worked in the industry themselves.
With their support and guidance I was able to start building a strong portfolio at an early stage in my career. This gave me a great head start when entering university and beyond.
Find your options
Talk to your school tutor about the different career options or visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/where-next.
Find more career information on careerpilot.org.uk.