Former student, Harry Lewington, returned to The Henley College at our STEM Careers Fair last week representing Simpson TWS, where he is now doing a Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship.
Please tell us who you are, where you come from and what you are doing now.
Harry Lewington. I’m from Reading and currently doing a Civil Engineering Degree Apprenticeship for Simpson TWS in Henley.
When did you come to The Henley College, what did you study here, and how did you get on?
I attended The Henley College from 2020-2022 and studied a Level 3 Extended Diploma in Engineering. In the first year I achieved my foundation diploma at level D*, and went on to the second year with a strong baseline to end up achieving a D*D*D*.
What was your first impression of The Henley College?
In comparison with sixth forms, The Henley College gives a far more adult impression to the students. You have a lot more independence and the relationship with the teachers feels a lot more personal than what you would find in sixth forms.
Why did you choose to come here? What helped make up your mind?
The courses that were offered. The sixth form at my school didn’t offer many BTECs, especially not STEM-related, so The Henley College was a great option for this. My brother had also just completed the same course, so I knew it was an option worth taking.
What is your best memory of your time at The Henley College and why?
Seeing the Deanfield dinner ladies everyday! They were always smiling and a great laugh.
Did you always want to do what you are doing now?
Of course not. I still wasn’t sure what to do when I finished at Highdown, in Emmer Green, you just end up in something and realise how great it is.
What has influenced your decisions about the subjects you have studied and the career path you have chosen?
My brother introduced me to the engineering course at The Henley College, but the main factor was my love of Maths and Physics. I knew I wanted to pursue something in that field as I’ve always found it fascinating and find myself wanting to learn more.
What are your ambitions for the future?
I’m not quite sure – I’m not there yet, maybe to secure myself financially in order to travel.
What do you think The Henley College did for you – aside from the qualifications you gained?
The Henley College introduced me to great people, both teachers and students, and gave me a chance to be independent and grow.
If you had one piece of advice for a 15-16 year old thinking about their future, what would it be?
I would say not to worry about work. There are countless jobs out there and even if you fall into something you don’t enjoy, it’s never too late to change – you’ll be absolutely fine.
