A Journey of Growth and Opportunity: How Itchen College Helped Shape Vojtech’s Future
Accounting: A*
Maths: A
Economics: A
It was a great experience for me! I want more people to have it too
At Itchen College, our A Level Programme provides a pathway to success for students from around the world. For Vojtech, a former student from Czechia, the journey to Itchen was unexpected but became a transformative experience that laid the foundation for his academic and professional achievements.
Originally planning to study in Canada, Vojtech’s plans were disrupted by the Covid-19 pandemic. With the UK border set to close within 24 hours, he scrambled to complete his paperwork overnight and managed to board the last flight to the UK before quarantine measures took effect. Arriving in Southampton, Vojtech knew little about the city or the British education system. However, his determination to improve his English and achieve strong academic results quickly made Itchen College feel like home.
“My parents paid a load of money for me to come here, so I wanted to make the most of the experience,” Vojtech told me in earnest with a wry smile. His grades speak for themselves.
Originally enrolling on the High School Programme, it took only two weeks for Vojtech to decide to stay on and continue his studies at Itchen. As a practical and rational thinker, he knew that A Levels are widely accepted worldwide and recognised this as the best choice for his future. The supportive environment at Itchen and his positive experience helped cement his decision.
A Holistic Approach to Learning
Vojtech began his studies with a strong academic focus, choosing A Levels in Business, Accounting, Maths, and Economics, alongside GCSE English to further enhance his language skills. He later refined his subject choices by dropping Business, to hone his skills in just the three subjects he needed to get into a Russel Group university. These decisions laid a solid foundation for his university studies in software engineering, where his entrepreneurial mindset guided him toward a career in technology and business.
His experience at Itchen College was not just about academic achievement but also about receiving personalised guidance. He regularly sought advice from teachers and senior leadership, including Maria Sparks, Mike Jones, and Sarah Lawes. Their insights helped him shape his personal statement and navigate the university application process. Itchen’s staff also provided hands-on support with UCAS, ensuring Vojtech had a clear understanding of his options and the requirements for his next steps.
A Rich Student Life
Vojtech’s time at Itchen College wasn’t solely about his studies. His social life flourished as well, and one of the most memorable aspects of his experience was meeting his Swiss girlfriend during his time at the college. Though she returned to Switzerland after one year, the couple has maintained a long-distance relationship, seeing each other every month. This personal connection, alongside his academic and extracurricular activities, embellished his time at Itchen.
Preparing for a Global Career
Thanks to the comprehensive education and support at Itchen College, Vojtech felt well-prepared for the next stage of his journey: university. He is now studying software engineering at Edinburgh University with a focus on computer science and is actively pursuing his entrepreneurial ambitions. In fact, Vojtech has already launched his own software company, providing consultancy, development, and automation services for businesses. His company also offers marketing, graphics, and various other services—a testament to the well-rounded education and skills he developed at Itchen.
Vojtech’s story highlights the value of the A Level Programme at Itchen College. With a curriculum that prepares students for global opportunities, personalised support from staff, and an inclusive community, Itchen provides students like Vojtech with the tools they need to succeed academically and professionally. Whether pursuing further education or starting a career, our students leave with the confidence to take on the world.
“I’m deciding where to move for the next stage of my life,” Vojtech said after our discussion of the lucrative salaries on offer for someone with his entrepreneurial talent and vision. “Maybe London, maybe Geneva to be closer to my girlfriend.”
Why Choose Itchen College?
At Itchen, we pride ourselves on offering an education that is recognised internationally, with A Levels widely accepted by universities around the globe. Our supportive environment, experienced staff, and tailored guidance ensure that each student is able to pursue their goals and succeed. Vojtech’s journey from Czechia to Southampton, and eventually to launching his own business, is a testament to the opportunities that await students who choose to study at Itchen College.
Join us, and let Itchen College be the first step in your journey to success.
