A YEAR ago, 19-year-old Max Copus from Southampton had no qualifications beyond GCSEs. Today, he is preparing to start his degree at the world-renowned University of Cambridge, having completed an Access to Higher Education (HE) Diploma at Wiltshire College & University Centre.
The Access to HE Diploma is a one-year Level 3 course designed for adults aged 19 and over who want to progress into higher education. It equips learners with subject knowledge, academic skills and confidence to take the next step – whether that’s university, a career change or new opportunities.
For Max, the programme proved life-changing. “Twelve months ago, I had no A Levels or any qualifications above GCSE – now I’m studying Theology, Religion and Philosophy of Religion at Christ’s College, Cambridge. The Access course gave me that opportunity, and it shows how quickly life can change if you put in the work.”
By choosing the humanities pathway, Max gained exposure to a wide range of ideas and perspectives, developing the critical thinking and writing skills that would prove essential for university-level study. The variety also helped him refine his interests and confirm his passion for philosophy and religion.
“I knew I wanted to study a humanities subject at university, and the course gave me a broad and engaging foundation that has really helped to prepare me for further study,” he said.
Max says his time at the College gave him valuable preparation both inside and outside the classroom. Meeting new people helped him grow socially, while the focus on essay writing and study skills built a strong academic foundation for university. He also talks highly about the support he received from tutors at the College.
“All the staff and tutors were extremely kind and went out of their way to support me and other students in whatever way they could. The support and teaching was top-tier,” said Max.
Max completed the Humanities pathway as a flexible learner, balancing his studies alongside other commitments – something that makes his achievement even more remarkable. The College also offers Access to HE Diplomas in Health and Human Science, as well as flexible online equivalents of the courses, giving learners more choice in how they study.
“Max’s achievements show just what’s possible through the Access to HE route. We see learners every year take huge steps forward in confidence and ambition, and it’s fantastic to see him now heading to Cambridge,” said Sue Bailey, Lecturer in Access to HE.
Looking ahead, Max is eager to embrace all that Christ’s College, Cambridge has to offer and he’s already considering how his studies might shape his future.
“Besides the degree itself, I’m looking forward to all the extra-curricular activities on offer – particularly music and sports. I’m also keen to continue with further study and eventually put my education to use in the fields of sociology and politics.”
We wish Max every success as he begins his studies at Cambridge and look forward to seeing where his journey takes him. His story is a reminder of how the Access to Higher Education Diploma can open doors to new opportunities and transform futures.
