From Step-Up to success

Travis Daly started his A levels back in 2022 after studying the Step-up Pathway course at Leeds Sixth Form College, which enables students aged 16 to 18 to gain five or more GCSEs. 

We spoke with Travis on GCSE results day in 2022 where he was full of praise for the sixth form college for its tremendous support.

“I owe the college so much – my teachers were contacting me almost every day to ask me how I was getting on. I’m so happy to know I’m now going to be doing A levels, it’s the best feeling.” 

After passing with flying colours, Travis had his heart set on staying at the sixth form to study law and politics. 

Two years later, Travis is now celebrating his A level results, achieving two Bs in History and Politics and a C in Law. He’s also secured a job as a legal assistant at a property law firm in Leeds.

We caught up with Travis to hear more about his time at the college.

Tell us about yourself. What made you decide to study A levels at Leeds Sixth Form? 

Leeds Sixth Form College gave me the tools and support from the Step-Up Pathway course that allowed me to consider college as a viable option. It wasn’t even an option for me to go anywhere else, which demonstrates the need for more step-up opportunities.

How do you think your course has developed you for the future? 

The courses provided me with a wider understanding of topics I am interested in. My politics A level inspired me to work for former MP Andrea Jenkyns, while my A level in law helped me further my understanding of the subject and even inspired my current job as a legal assistant.

I did a conveyancing work experience placement whilst at college, which helped me realise that conveyancing could be a genuine profession for me. As soon as I left, I found a person from a job agency who recommended me to a big legal firm in Leeds. I put on a suit and got the job!

What skills have you learned working at the law firm? 

I work with lenders to help people who want to purchase a house or equity release, so I’ve learned a lot about lease extensions, freehold acquisitions and dealing with solicitors, purchasers and banks who lend money to purchasers.

Tell us about a course highlight

Having the ability to widen my knowledge of topics I was already interested in was a key highlight. Having the chance to ask questions in a friendly environment was also something I appreciated.

Did you face any challenges or barriers during your course?

I faced no barriers during my studies. The college provided me with the finances to get to college and helped where they could.

What advice would you give to anyone considering studying A levels at Leeds Sixth Form?

Do it. Leeds Sixth Form College is at the heart of Yorkshire’s most vibrant city and there’s no reason not to go for it.

It is absolutely normal to feel like you’re not going to succeed or get a decent grade. However, if you put in the work and revise and revise even more, you will get what you deserve.

And lastly, what’s next for you?

As for my future, I think I will continue working at the legal firm and work towards becoming a licensed conveyancer. I think I may reconsider university later down the line. Fortunately, there are so many options nowadays that you can progress in life without a degree. Who knows!