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The Guernsey Institute looks at offering on-island alternative to university

The Guernsey Institute looks at offering on-island alternative to university

Wednesday 03 March 2021

The Guernsey Institute looks at offering on-island alternative to university

Wednesday 03 March 2021


Students might be able to complete the first year of their university course in Guernsey, amid concerns about relocating during the pandemic.

TGI is asking students whether they would consider staying here and working towards Higher National Diplomas and Higher National Certificates, which would be Level 4 and Level 5 – equivalent to a foundation degree.

“Some universities will offer credit for the completion of these courses and allow students to start straight into their second year,” a TGI spokesperson said. 

“The courses would also give those planning to go straight into employment access to work placements and experience, while they continue their higher education.” 

The survey comes as more students express concerns about starting university during the Covid-19 pandemic. TGI has approached industry leaders to establish what demand there would be from employers, and for what subjects. 

Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen

Pictured: Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen said the courses would help give students "critical work experience".

The survey is open to those in Year 13 or equivalent at the grant-aided Colleges, the Sixth Form Centre and the Guernsey College of Further Education. So far, it has had 190 responses, with the majority indicating that they were unsure of what they are going to do next. 

Jacki Hughes, Executive Principal of The Guernsey Institute, said: “Understandably, some students are concerned about relocating to the UK in the midst of this pandemic, but also want to ensure they continue their studies. 

"If the demand is there, we have the opportunity to offer some foundation level courses on-island, which may allow students to spend the first 12 months of their studies in Guernsey, and then jump into university in their second year of studies without having had a year break.” 

Deputy Andrea Dudley-Owen, President of the Committee for Education, Sport & Culture, said: “The Guernsey Institute has the opportunity to offer peace of mind to island students worried about both moving to the UK during the pandemic, and letting their studies slip. 

“These courses would help to give students critical work experience on placements while they study, which can often be key to them securing employment.” 

Pictured top:  The Guernsey Institute is asking local students whether they would consider starting their university studies on-island.

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