There's an education and training route for everyone after GCSEs and you don't have to follow one path. 

Sam decided that A levels were right for him...

Sam studied A level Photography, Media and Sociology at Weymouth College before progressing to the London College of Communication to study photojournalism. He now works as a freelance photographer taking on commissions for companies such as:

  • The New York Times
  • Architectural Digest
  • G F Smith Paper
  • Hyde & Sleep
  • The New York Times
  • Architectural Digest
  • G F Smith Paper
  • Hyde & Sleep

Sam's career journey


  • The Sir John Colfox Academy, Bridport
  • A level Photography, Media and Sociology at Weymouth College
  • BA in Photojournalism at the London College of Communication

What was your learning journey?


Being self-employed means that each day can look very different from the last. I can be doing anything from shooting portraits of factory workers for a magazine, photographing buildings for an architectural studio or travelling overseas for assignments that can last weeks at a time.

The variety of work and the ability to manage my own schedule is one of the many reasons that I love what I do.

What are you doing now?


Going on to study at A level played a big part in helping me pursue a career in the arts. My tutors helped to realise what was possible as they had worked in the industry themselves.

With their support and guidance I was able to start building a strong portfolio at an early stage in my career. This gave me a great head start when entering university and beyond.

Find your options


Talk to your school tutor about the different career options or visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/where-next.

Find more career information on careerpilot.org.uk.