When Jordan graduated high school in 2021, she didn’t have a clear idea of what career path she would choose. She had heard of Bedford College through both her family and church with many stories of great experiences studying there. Looking into the courses, Jordan found the twelve-month course length appealing to her at that time as she wasn’t keen to commit to a longer period of study without knowing which career path she wanted to take. The vocational study and integrated workplace experiences suited Jordan’s learning style. Better yet, she would be studying in a Christian environment – learning real-world skills in a culture embedded with Christian values.
Bedford College focuses on the individual rather than the ATAR, engaging in interviews and learning about the students’ experiences. Jordan was surprised that Bedford College didn’t even ask to see her ATAR or grades before accepting her application to study a Dual Diploma of Business and Diploma of Leadership & Management.
“They don’t focus on a number, they focus on who you are and who you want to be,” explains Jordan, “they then pour everything into helping you succeed and grow as an individual equipped to enter the workforce”.
“I loved it, every bit of it,” recounts Jordan, “it was nice being in a nurturing Christian environment, surrounded with friendly and loving people that accepted me and welcomed me in”. Having studied at a public high school, Jordan didn’t have many Christian friends, so greatly appreciated the opportunity to build solid friendships with her Christian peers, friendships that have lasted beyond her time studying.
Another great benefit from studying at Bedford College is that you can commence your twelve-month course at any time throughout the year, you don’t need to enrol by January.
From ping-pong tournaments to lunchtime Bible studies, Bedford is committed to providing a healthy culture and environment for their students.
Jordan was given a role as Future Students Coordinator and was able to represent Bedford College at different career expositions and youth events throughout the year. “I was proud to represent Bedford College,” recalls Jordan.
Jordan also appreciated the ways Bedford invested in her and her career. With a focus on practical, hands-on experiences, Bedford includes work experience and industry placements in its courses. “It gives you an insight into what it’s going to be like in the workplace and an opportunity to use the skills you’re learning in a live workplace environment.”
Although Jordan was employed as a Shift Supervisor at KFC while completing her studies at Bedford College, Denise, Industry Liaison Coordinator, encouraged her to apply for jobs and use the skills and knowledge that she has gained from her studies at Bedford College. Denise’s role is to help students launch their careers after graduating and helps with everything from resume writing to job applications and liaising with industry partners. With Denise’s support, Jordan applied for two jobs and her applications were successful at both.
Jordan now works as a Human Resources Assistant in a law firm and is loving her job. Her workplace has since hosted a work experience student from Bedford College, allowing Jordan to continue to support Bedford College in the industry.
Bedford welcomes everyone who is looking to study somewhere that values them as an individual while preparing them for the workforce. Download a Course Guide to learn more about their tertiary vocational courses.
