STUDENTS CELEBRATE COLLEGE GCSE SUCCESS

North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) is celebrating the success of its students as they receive their GCSE results. In total over one thousand students were awarded grades in maths and English based on the higher of their tutor’s predicted grade or the exam boards’ calculated grade. In line with the national picture, calculations were based on a blend of college predictions, historical results, and national data.

Megan Sexton, 18, who is studying photography at Level 3, began the year as a quiet student who had little confidence in her own ability in English.  Despite this, she attended every lesson and her confidence began to grow, along with her enjoyment of English. Megan constantly looked for ways to improve and acted positively on all her tutor’s feedback. Megan was pleased to have achieved a grade 6 in her GCSE English language.

Chloe Downes started college on a Level 1 painting and decorating course demonstrating a good understanding of maths and displaying the determination and enthusiasm to learn. Chloe always completed the tasks set during lessons and kept up her studies outside class with the support of Mathswatch. Although Chloe was a quiet learner, she would think nothing of helping her peers by showing them examples and new ways to work out the maths. During her time at the college, Chloe improved her maths from a grade 3 to a grade 5.

Adult students have continued to achieve well at GCSE, and two students were awarded Grade 9s in GCSE English from a group which also included three grade 7 results. In addition, the GCSE maths team also supported over a dozen students to achieve a grade 5 which is the highest available at foundation level.

Lyni Sargent, who was awarded a Grade 9 in English displayed a natural ability for creative writing and her tutors say that she produced many fabulous stories and articles throughout the year. She also found time to publish a series of children’s books during lockdown and is now heading for a place at Leeds Beckett University.

An avid reader, Mark started the course with an enthusiasm for English and continued to develop his skills through hard work and commitment, achieving a grade 9 for his GCSE. His tutors say that his creative skills are likely to see him as an established author in the future.

Tutors put Gemma Browne’s success in GCSE English down to her focus and motivation, and a determination to achieve her future goals. Gemma, who achieved a grade 7 for English, has also achieved an Access to Social Science qualification and will be heading to De Montfort University to study law.

Samantha Jackson’s focus and hard work this year has resulted in her achieving a grade 7 for her GCSE English. Her tutors said that her calming presence in the classroom and her generous sharing of knowledge helped to support and motivate her peers.

Access to Higher Education student Seb Ison-Jacques was awarded a grade 7 in GCSE English having started as a student on the college’s foundation studies programme and made considerable progress. Seb developed a passion for reading and confidence in his own ability, that has resulted in him achieving a high grade for his GCSE English alongside his Access to Humanities qualification, and he is now set to progress on to university.

Marion Plant, OBE FCGI, Principal and Chief Executive of NWSLC said, “We are delighted with the progress that has been made in GCSE subjects this year which has been hard won by students who have shown considerable tenacity in very difficult circumstances.

“The results have shown that further education can be a life-changing experience for young people and adults alike and provides fantastic opportunities for those that work hard. We congratulate all our students on their results and wish them well for their future success.”

Anyone who has not yet applied for a college course can still apply online. Advice and guidance teams will be available for anyone who is not sure about their next steps after they have received their GCSE results. You can talk to the team live via the college website or call 0330 058 3000 to speak to an advisor.