Real Learning At SERC Puts Aaron On Path To Success
A young man now working at South Eastern Regional College (SERC) Downpatrick Campus says he has come full circle since enrolling there as a student straight from school.
Aaron Casement graduated last year with a higher education qualification, delivered at the college, and now supports other hospitality students to achieve their ambitions in culinary arts.
Twenty-nine-year-old Aaron from Downpatrick was among the first cohort to graduate from SERC with a Foundation Degree in Culinary Arts (accredited by The Open University) in September 2025.
He gained the qualification through studying whilst working part-time as a catering assistant in SERC’s College Kitchen restaurant, preparing and serving food to students, staff, and the local community who often drop in for coffee or lunch. He is now also lecturing at the college.
Aaron would recommend SERC, and its emphasis on real learning for real life, to anyone considering their pathway into higher education: “My time at SERC fully prepared me for the role I’m in today. I first encountered the college through their school links programme, while I was at school in Crossgar.
“After GCSEs, I enrolled on Level 2 Professional Cookery followed by both Level 2 & Level 3 Patisserie and Confectionery at the college’s Downpatrick Campus. Teaching has always been one of my aspirations, and I am proud to have progressed onto SERC’s part-time lecturer register.
“The mix of hands-on experience, professional standards, and industry-focused teaching gave me the confidence and skills to step into both support and now a lecturing role.
“Coming to college has given me the confidence to keep progressing – I plan to continue my studies by completing a Level 6 award to achieve my full degree.”
Higher education opportunities at SERC range through degrees, foundation degrees, Higher National Diplomas (HNDs), Higher National Certificates (HNCs), and professional courses up to postgraduate level. You can also choose a Higher Level Apprenticeship, allowing you to earn while you learn.
The college is a partner institution of Liverpool John Moores University, The Open University, Queen’s University Belfast, and Ulster University, and delivers BTEC qualifications through Pearson. You can see the full range of courses available in the SERC Higher Education Prospectus 2026.
The college focuses on real learning for real life, with courses taught by lecturers with industry experience and in professional standard facilities.
Students are encouraged to demonstrate their abilities in skills competitions, and courses include work placements, with some opportunities to travel abroad.
SERC also offers a substantial network of support services, including pastoral care, dedicated support for student carers, an active Students’ Union and an award winning careers team.
Yearly course fees are lower than those of universities and student finance advisors are available at SERC to advise you on fees and possible funding.
As Aaron Casement confirms, SERC is committed to supporting students to achieve: “Whether you are fresh out of school or returning to education later in life, SERC provides the support and opportunities to help everyone succeed.
“The mix of hands-on experience, professional standards, and industry-focused teaching certainly gave me the foundation I needed.
“I am proud of how far I have come. SERC has been a huge part of that journey, and I would encourage anyone with a passion or goal to take that same first step – you never know just how far it might take you.”
SERC celebrates the success of our Higher Education students with a graduation ceremony at the Waterfront Hall in Belfast each September. The college is very proud that the achievement rate for our full-time Higher Education students is consistently over 98%.
In addition, approximately 60% of full-time students achieved higher grades on their qualifications in 2025.
Apply for SERC HE full-time courses through the UCAS platform:
or via the SERC website for full-time or part-time courses, including Higher-Level Apprenticeships at:
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