There's something for everyone after GCSEs and you don't have to follow one path.

Krysti decided that A levels weren't for her...

After I finished secondary school I applied and received a place on the Level 3 Extended BTEC Diploma in Health and Social Care at The Grange School. However after receiving my GCSE results I decided I would stay on at Twynham School to do my A levels but after a few months I decided this wasn't the best route for me and that a vocational route would support me more in reaching university. After discussion with the Head of Sixth Form I was offered the chance to move over to the BTEC route.

Krysti's career journey


  • A levels at Twynham School Christchurch. Changed course after a few months
  • Level 3 Extended BTEC Diploma in Health and Social Care at The Grange School Christchurch
  • Bachelor of Science Nursing degree (Adult) at Southampton University

What was your learning journey?


During my time on the BTEC course with the support of my tutors and my own hard work, I was awarded an overall grade of triple Distinction. In addition to my academic studies for the course I also spent time doing work experience which included going into a nursing home to help with the activities.

I also spent some time at Bournemouth Hospital on a rotation between different wards and theatres to find out what it was like working in a hospital.

What are you doing now?


After applying to different universities and being offered places at each of them, I took up my offer at the University of Southampton and started studying for my Bachelor of Science in Nursing (Adult) in September 2016.

If I had carried on with A levels I do not believe I would have been accepted into a Russell Group university to study for the career of my dreams. The BTEC taught me all the foundations of health care which has helped me excel at university.

Find your education options

There are different ways to find out what your education options are: