South Eastern Regional College has begun accepting online applications for full-time courses. The college will hold open evenings from 4pm to 7pm on Thursday 5 March at its Bangor, Downpatrick, Lisburn and Newtownards campuses.

Pamela works as a care assistant for Beaumont Care Homes. Her manager encouraged her to join an apprenticeship programme at the college through her workplace. She completed five qualifications covering health and wellbeing, dementia care, care plan implementation, personal development and person-centred care. Tutors accommodated her work schedule.

Pamela plans to take a position with the South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust based on her qualifications and experience. She also aims to start a Level 4 Health and Social Care course at the college.

Tommy Martin, Principal and Chief Executive of the college, stated that it offers courses up to university degree level, including apprenticeships and traineeships. The college records the highest student success rate among Northern Ireland's regional colleges. Its vocational programmes match the Department for the Economy's priorities for skills development.

Open evening visitors can tour professional facilities such as specialist studios, workshops, IT suites, industry kitchens, hair and beauty salons and laboratories. Tutors and lecturers will discuss courses and career options. Careers advisers, student support staff and students' union representatives will attend.