Today brought the news that I have been working towards for more than 6 years - I have completed my advanced level cake decoration qualifications with distinction having finally finished the royal icing module and a cake that is probably the most intricate and technically difficult project that I am ever likely to undertake.  To complete all three levels of NVQ certificates has required demonstrating competence in a variety of technical skills but also overcoming hurdles that I had not expected when I first signed up for the foundation level way back in 2003.  Changes in funding for higher education have resulted in fewer and fewer colleges being able to offer this type of “vocational” course and I can honestly say I have had to enroll at 5 different colleges, organise ever-changing childcare arrangements and complete large amounts of work at home to achieve this goal.  Beware if you are thinking of starting a qualification course but it has definitely been worth it for me - which is easy to say now it is over!!  Many thanks to my long and distinguished list of tutors but especially Stephen Benison at the City of Bath College for his support, patience and exceptional expertise.