Eight students studying A Levels at BTC returned from Hinds County, Mississippi. The learners were selected after a rigorous interview process. The mobility was funded via the Turing Scheme, which aims to give learners from diverse backgrounds the opportunity of international travel.
Learners were hosted by Hinds County Community College (HCC), where they partook in several university-style lectures. This also included a video call with HCC students serving sentences in a local prison. Whilst on mobility, learners visited multiple legal and political institutions, in addition to localised court houses, police stations, custody units and private legal offices. Learners also visited historical and cultural places of interest, and also had time to enjoy leisure activities.
Learners also met with several politicians, judges and police officers. Whilst visiting the Mississippi Civil Rights Museum, they were greeted by Hezekiah Watkins, who at 13 years old was placed on death row and later became the youngest Freedom Rider.
Whilst on mobility, learners stayed with host families where they fully immersed themselves in the Mississippi culture.
First-year law student, Liv Polus said:
The Mississippi Mobility was one of the best opportunities I have been given. The mobility gave me so many new experiences and memories. It boosted my confidence by speaking and surrounding myself with new people. Every day was different which encouraged me to step out of my comfort zone and try new things.
Karen Crowley, A Level Course Leader who co-organised the mobility added:
The mobility reminded me of the reason I became a teacher: to see real growth and personal development in my students. I am forever grateful to the Turing Scheme, which made this mobility possible. Without their funding, our learners would never have had this opportunity. I would also like to give special thanks to BTC’s International Projects team, whose support and guidance for this mobility underpinned its success.
Learners have not only gained a deeper understanding of the historical, political and legal systems of the US, but they have been able to draw direct correlation to what they are learning in their A Level studies. Learners gained an insight into university-style lecturing and met with several political and legal personnel who have inspired them to aim high with their future careers and studies – for example, one of my learners has decided she would love to become a Judge!
For more information about A Levels and BTC’s multitude of educational offerings, please visit www.btc.ac.uk or get in touch with the Information & Advice team by emailing info@btc.ac.uk.
