I chose to do the Creative and Media Diploma at Ringmer College because I felt it would open more doors for me than an Art GCSE. Plus it sounded really fun and I thought I might learn more skills. We’ve had a lot of help from the teachers, which has made it easier for us to keep up.

The Diploma course is different because there is a lot more independent learning. We have a whole day of Diploma lessons which makes such a big difference to how we work - I feel that I can go at my own pace and not rush. Working in a group has been really good fun and means we can share our skills with each other.

Our team project is to design an advertising campaign for the world famous Glyndebourne Opera House. We got to do our pitches in front of the actor Dan Ryan and he gave us some good pointers.

I’ve also been learning how to use Adobe Photoshop and I now base a lot of my work around it. We’ve had guests come in to tell us about their experiences in the business and how the industry works. My confidence has really grown and I’ve learnt a lot more about the market.

Once I finish my Diploma and leave school I hope to become a graphic designer and I feel this Diploma has given me a better chance of doing that.

Sam, 14, from Ringmer Community College

What do you think about Sam's story? Let us know. Or do you have a real life story of your own you'd like to share? Find out how to submit a real life story.