Chris described Sunderland College as exciting, refreshing and informative. As part of his music course he was given the opportunity to perform at the Sage in Gateshead, an achievement of which he remains very proud. Following the completion of his BTEC, Chris stayed at Sunderland College to complete a foundation degree, before moving on to Sunderland University to achieve an HND in Music Performance. He now teaches Music Performance and Technology in Hampshire.

He said:
“I decided to study at Sunderland College due to the positive reputation of the music department. I was also impressed upon meeting the tutors at the College open day.

What I liked best about Sunderland College was the wealth of opportunities provided by the music department. I am also grateful for the friends I met, as well as the all-round positive atmosphere on campus.

It is hard to pick a single ‘best thing’ about the course due to the great extent that I enjoyed it. The course provided opportunities and experiences that allowed me to progress into the career that I’m in today. All of the teaching and support staff were so great; they always put in the extra hours to help us achieve. Each member of staff was a positive role model and amazing musician. I learned so much from them.”

Chris is now working as a teacher in Music Performance & Technology at St Vincent College Sixth Form in Hampshire.

Student success stories

Maths and English for a Successful Future

Maths and English are everywhere! They are important life skills that will help you to achieve your best in your studies and to progress to your dream career. A GCSE Maths and English qualification could be the difference between being accepted onto a university course or getting a job promotion.

98% of our students progress to a positive destination

*Destination data for Sunderland College students aged 16-18, academic year 2017/18).

Why choose Sunderland College?

Our achievement rates are well above the national average.

We are the College of the Year.

(*Top college nationally for BTECs, Pearson 2019)

100% of our HND and HNC students progressed to employment or further study. 

(*Destination data, academic year 2016/17, HNC 19+)

We have recently invested £50 million in our facilities.