Darcey Swiekowski began thinking about her future during visits to local colleges organised by staff at Primet. This helped to make her aware of the wide variety of options available to her after completing her GCSEs including A Levels, BTECs, T Levels and Apprenticeships. It was during this research that Darcey chose to enrol for A Levels in Psychology and Sociology – subjects she hadn’t previously studied. Darcey said: “A Levels are harder than GCSEs but choosing subjects you love makes it much easier. There is such a wide variety of subjects available at college but you shouldn’t be scared about choosing those you haven’t studied in secondary school – it’s a great opportunity to learn something new.” 

Darcey has just completed her A Levels in Psychology, Sociology and English Literature at Burnley College and her love for Psychology has helped her to decide her future study and career plans. Later this year, she will progress to Leeds Trinity University to study a degree in Psychology. She hopes to complete a sandwich year industry placement as part of this degree before progressing to a Masters in Psychology. Darcey added: “After completing my studies I plan to travel the world, attending concerts and festivals across the globe. I also aim to teach Psychology to post-16 students or become a counsellor.” 

Looking back on her time at Primet, Darcey said: “Some of my favourite memories are the sports days where everyone worked together and had fun. I also found a love for volunteering while taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. I still volunteer where possible, with my most recent fundraiser – spending the night sleeping in a cardboard box – raising £500 for the AKT homelessness charity. 

“I looked forward to my English lessons the most thanks to my teacher, Mr Woodward. His passion for English solidified my choice to study it at A Level. He made every lesson exciting and allowed all students to engage and push themselves to achieve. 

“The friends and memories I made at Primet will stick with me forever. The staff always root for you and helped to guide and support me whenever I needed it.