Julie studied International Baccaleureate at Bridgwater & Taunton College, during which time she wrote a 4,000 word essay on the use of essential oils as an antibacterial. This was an important step in her academic journey as she learnt skills such as critical evaluation, referencing and practical laboratory skills, along with time management and teamwork. Following her hard work, Julie successfully applied to Bristol University and is studying towards her medical degree, with a ambition to become a doctor in the future.

James chose to study A Levels at Bridgwater & Taunton College, where he had access to university-level, highgrade equipment including robotic arms. Having the opportunity to access these facilities before university is extremely rare and James believes it gave him an advantage over peers when applying for Higher Education. Since completing his A-Levels at the College, James is studying Architecture at University College London. After achieving his undergraduate degree, he plans to complete a Master’s in Architecture in order to become a Certified Architect – focusing on computational robotic design and automated manufacturing of the built environment, with a view to creating a company that develops low-cost, high quality affordable housing for the masses.

Becki Howes studied the Media Production course at Bridgwater College before moving on to Newport University to study the BA in Documentary, Film and Television and the BA in Film and Video Studies. Originally from Cannington, Becki was nominated for her documentary ‘Men in Stripes’ at the Wales Centre Royal Television Awards in 2015. The film is about a group of 12 men in Kotka, Finland who meet up fortnightly to practise gymnastics. It is a film exploring the oddities of life and how different things make people happy.