Suheil has an ambition to be an outstanding carpenter and has already achieved success on the New City College Level 1 Carpentry and Joinery course. Check out his Q&A below to find out all about him and how he has found his first year at college.
Tell us about your education journey – what and where did you study before coming to NCC?
I went to Five Elms Primary School and then to Eastbury Community School in Barking to study GCSEs.
What are your plans for next steps?
I want to continue my studies at NCC, moving on to Level 2 in the Carpentry course at Rainham campus.
What’s your ambition in life?
Firstly, achieve in my education and pass my exams, and then I want to work as a carpenter in the construction industry and become the best carpenter I can be.
What is the most interesting thing you’ve learned on your course?
I came to college with a plan to study and learn all about the building trade. I thought I wanted to become a builder or bricklayer, but instead I started doing carpentry and found that I was more interested in that.
How did New City College help you achieve?
The facilities, the staff and my teachers! Overall, everything at NCC was amazing.
What values are most important to you?
Education is the most important thing to me.
What is the biggest change you wish to see in the world?
More young people with learning difficulties like myself becoming more confident and achieving more from their education and becoming who they want to be.
What is the best advice you have ever received?
Since my childhood, I have always been a very shy person and never used my voice loud enough. During my first year at NCC I was encouraged to use my voice a lot more which was very difficult for me at the beginning. But I found it very helpful and it has given me more confidence, even outside of college.
If you could go back in time, what would you tell your 15-year-old self?
Always believe in yourself, no matter what.
What makes you feel positive?
When I get encouragement and support from my parents and from my teachers at college.
Who is your role model?
Anthony Joshua, the boxer
Who is your favourite teacher and why?
Caren Rafferty, my English teacher, has given me so much support. She has encouraged me to believe in myself and has always made sure that I fully understand everything.
What is the best thing about New City College?
The Library. I can sit there and focus on revision in a nice, quiet and calm environment.
If you had three wishes, what would they be?
Firstly, to be known as one of the best carpenters. Secondly to earn a lot money, and thirdly to have a good and healthy life.