Every year, young people and adult learners at Kirklees College sit their GCSE maths and English exams to gain these vital qualifications needed to pursue their career aspirations. This year, results across the country dipped to pre-pandemic levels, but at Kirklees College we celebrated the achievements of many students who excelled in their exams, including students whose learning was impacted by the pandemic.
This year, the college saw some outstanding results from some truly inspiring students. One of those students is Min Zhang, who sat both GCSEs and achieved very a very impressive grade 5 in maths and grade 4 in English.
Speaking about her experience at Kirklees College, Min said:
“English is my second language so I was not familiar with a lot of terminology, however, the tutors were very professional, supportive and patient with me.”
Min hopes to use these qualifications to support her career aspirations of becoming a Teaching Assistant.
Another student who excelled in her GCSE exams this year is Codie Lambern, who achieved a grade 5 in GCSE English. Codie is now hoping to progress to study Forensic Science at the University of Central Lancashire.
Commenting on her achievements, Codie said:
“I felt as though the staff cared a lot and were really supportive and this helped me to achieve the grade that I did.”
Najla Rafi also achieved a grade 4 in GCSE English this year, alongside studying Level 3 Childcare and Education. Najla moved to the UK from Italy three years ago and English is her fourth spoken language. When she arrived in the UK, she had an English Literature qualification, but not the English Language qualification she needed to progress to university.
Najla commented:
“My support tutor Joseph and the one-to-one sessions at college helped me to pass my GCSE English exams. Now that I have my GCSE and have completed my Level 3 qualification, my next goal is to complete my BA honours in Early Years Education at the University of Huddersfield, where I will be starting in September.”
Elesse Butler also passed her maths GCSE exams this year, after passing English last year. She is also celebrating fantastic BTEC results, after receiving a Merit in her Level 3 Public Services qualification. Speaking about her experience at college, Elesse said:
“I struggled with my GCSEs as I’m dyslexic. The college helped me get extra support for my exams, including giving me extra time, a smaller room and a reader. My next goal is to join the police force, where I have just applied and I’m currently waiting for a response.”
Michelle Rich, Head of Faculty for English and maths at Kirklees College said:
“These students are a shining example of what can be achieved through hard work and dedication. Their commitment to their studies is exemplary and we couldn’t be prouder to have been a part of their journey as they pursue their career aspirations.”
GCSE English and maths lessons are available to people of all ages at Kirklees College. To find out more, head to our English and maths pages.
