A Chance Internet Search Led Nathan to Find the Perfect Fit for his Next Step in Education at SERC

Nathan Quee (20), from Bangor, studied GCSEs and A-Levels at Bangor Academy. After receiving his A-Level results, Nathan knew he wanted to pursue further studies in IT and was accepted onto a course at a local university. Nathan said, “It was great to be accepted to university, but the course offering was very generalised and not specific to cyber security which was a particular area of interest to me.” 

Nathan continued, “My Dad helped me do some research and after a quick internet search of cyber security courses, we found that SERC was offering a Foundation Degree in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics (validated by The Open University). It seemed like the ideal course for me, plus it was local, so it was much more convenient. I came into the College to speak to the lecturers and to apply. It was the best decision I’ve ever made.”  

Now in his second year, Nathan has covered a range of topics including programming fundamentals, computational maths and computer fundamentals. This year, he has been focusing on security, learning about IoT security, network security and cloud security. He has also secured a 12-week work experience placement which he will be undertaking at his former school, Bangor Academy. 

Aside from the topics covered, Nathan’s favourite aspect of the course is the learning environment at SERC. He explains: “SERC offers smaller class sizes, so you really get to know your tutors and they get to know you.”  

He continues: “Most of my lecturers have industry experience so they can provide real-world scenarios and context to what I’m learning.” 

After completing his Foundation Degree, Nathan hopes to continue his education. He would like to stay at SERC to top-up to the full BSc (Hons) in Cyber Security and Digital Forensics Degree and then go on to university to complete a master’s degree.  

Nathan enthuses: “I didn’t realise SERC was an option for Higher Education, but it was the right fit for me. To anyone thinking about Higher Education at SERC – absolutely do it. The courses are practical, hands-on and the class sizes are small. SERC offers amazing support services and extra-curricular activities and as a bonus, studying at SERC is much cheaper than going to university!” 

SERC offers real learning for real life. Applications are still open, and places are still available on some courses commencing September 2025.