GCSE maths and English results give students the grades they need
Chesterfield College students are celebrating today after receiving the news that they have passed their GCSE maths and English qualification after sitting exams in November.
For some of the students, this would have been the first time they were able to sit the GCSE exams, following the cancellation of exams in the summer. For others, the exams provided an opportunity to improve their grades or refresh their knowledge.
Achieving a grade 4 or above helps students to progress to higher study and opens up a range of career options. With the support of maths and English tutors at college, the students often study the subject alongside other courses. The college provides targeted support to help learners develop the skills they need to help them achieve the required grade many universities and employers are looking for.
Maths matters to change career
Adult student, Amy Vardy, who is studying an Access to Higher Education, needed a grade 4 in Maths to secure a place at university to study nursing. She was surprised and excited to receive the news she had the grade she needed this morning. She told us:
“It is amazing news. I couldn’t believe it. Maths has never been my strong point but I obviously knew more than I thought I did! I only started studying it in September so to take the exam in November and pass feels great. I’ve always thought of nursing but I didn’t have the relevant qualifications when I finished school. Now my daughter is older, I realised I couldn’t plod along anymore and I needed to go back to college to build the career I want. I love the access course. It is full on and hard work but getting this grade today makes me realise I am doing the right thing and I am on the right path.”
Maths and English matters to employers
Blaine Glossop, former media student, was delighted to receive a grade 4 in English and maths today after persevering with his studies for several years. He told us:
“I know employers look for English and maths skills so getting these grade 4 results was really important for me. It is a big a relief. Being able to focus just on maths and English has really helped me this year because I had no other college work to do. I practiced a lot in class and did lots of work at home too this time. I would tell anyone in my position to keep going and remember that the more hours you put in the better result you get.”
First year childhood studies student, Kelci Dixon, was keen to improve on her grade from the summer. She was very happy to get a grade 5 today.
“I was hoping I would get at least a 4 but to get a 5 is just brilliant. I told my mum the news first and she is very proud of me! Having this grade will really help when I start looking for jobs working with pre-school children in nurseries. Tutors at college helped to make sure I was ready for the exam and what to expect and that really helped.”
A huge congratulations
David Malone, Vice principal at Chesterfield College, said:
“We are very proud that over 250 students have successfully passed their GCSE in maths, English or both. This is testament to the hard work of students and staff during these difficult times.”
“Congratulations to everyone who has received the grades they were hoping for today. It is wonderful to be able to celebrate your success and I know your efforts will equip you as you progress in your studies and your career.”
“To anyone who didn’t quite get the grade they were hoping for my message is, keep going and stay in touch with your tutors. We will support you to practice the skills and knowledge you need for the future.”