Martin Sloan and William McFadden

Two budding photographers have turned their passion for taking pictures into an exciting new learning journey, progressing from community-based courses at Ferguslie to full-time study at West College Scotland's Paisley Campus.
Martin Sloan and William McFadden are proof that it's never too late to learn something new, having both taken their first steps towards further education through photography courses at the College's Ferguslie Community Learning Centre.
What began as an opportunity to explore a hobby has now developed into something much bigger, with both students progressing to the College's full-time NQ Photography course.

For Martin, the journey began almost by chance when he accompanied his daughter as she enquired about another course.

"I've always had an interest in photography and enjoy taking pictures – some good, others not so good!" he laughed.
"My daughter was enquiring about something else when I mentioned my interest in photography. Kathleen enrolled me there and then!"
Martin thoroughly enjoyed his time at Ferguslie, describing it as a great opportunity to get out of the house, meet people and spend time doing something he loved.
The experience also gave him the confidence to take his learning further.

 

Initially, I wanted to run before I could walk, so Julie suggested I do the NQ Photography course and work my way through the different stages. I'm doing the course because I want to push myself and hopefully learn new skills in photography.

For fellow student William McFadden, retirement provided the perfect opportunity to pursue a lifelong interest.
"I've always had an interest in photography but never actually found the time to attend classes to improve my skills until I retired," explained William.
After discovering the Ferguslie courses through an online search, William decided to give them a go and hasn't looked back.
He completed a range of photography classes with lecturer Ian Campbell, covering everything from understanding photography to photographing people and places.
I really enjoyed the wide variety of course content and meeting new and interesting people. Studying at Ferguslie gave me the confidence, along with the help and encouragement from Kathleen and Ian, to apply for the NQ Photography course and submit my portfolio.

Now studying full-time at Paisley Campus, William admits that returning to education has been a challenge, but one he's embracing. "It can be a bit demanding at times, with five lecturers giving you assignments and deadlines, but I'm giving it my best shot! I hope to achieve my NQ Photography qualification in June 2027 and, if all goes well, continue onto the HNC course in August."

Both students are enthusiastic about encouraging others to explore the learning opportunities available at Ferguslie.

Martin said: "The NPA is the first step towards a promising career or simply expanding your knowledge of photography. I'd encourage anyone to be the best they can be."

William added:

 I'd say go for it! You're never too old to learn. What have you got to lose? You meet so many nice and interesting people, and it could open up new horizons for you.

Their journeys highlight the important role community learning plays in helping people build confidence, discover new interests and take the next step in their education.

From picking up a camera at Ferguslie to developing their skills at Paisley Campus, Martin and William are showing that sometimes all it takes is that first step to bring new opportunities into focus.