There were celebrations at City College Plymouth today as GCSE students achieved an impressive overall pass rate of 99%.
From expectant mothers to those relying on their results to gain admission to university or a place on an Apprenticeship, there were happy tears, screams of disbelief and smiles all round as students opened their results.
CEO & Principal of City College Plymouth, Garry Phillips, said: “We are extremely proud of the excellent results achieved by our students. As the highest performing and student focused further education college in the country, it’s not surprising that our staff continue to support and deliver a fantastic experience for our students. This experience enables our students to gain excellent exam results, self-confidence and realise their ambitions and career opportunities.
“I would like to take this opportunity to thank our dedicated and inspirational staff for all their hard work in helping our students achieve this impressive pass rate.”
Not making the grades doesn’t have to be the ‘be all and end all’. Everyone’s educational journey is different so, whether you get the qualifications you need at 16 or 60, there are options. Knowing what’s out there and having all the facts is so important in making an informed decision and doing what is best for you.
Those unsure about their next steps can call the College’s exams results helpline on 01752 305803 or get advice and guidance from College staff at a Results Advisory Session, Tuesday 28 to Friday 31 August 1.00pm to 4.00pm at Kings Road.
We spoke to some students who have truly fantastic stories of individual success.
Michelle Doddridge
Access to Education
Mum of four, Michelle, has dedicated her life to her children and finally decided she wanted to do something for herself. She studied GCSE maths alongside an Access to Higher Education course at City College Plymouth and achieved a grade 5. Now she will be able to go on to study primary education at university in September.
“I’ve not been in education for over 20 years and it was difficult at first to get back into the right frame of mind. However, everyone at the College is so supportive. You can go at your own pace and when there is something you don’t understand there is always someone who is willing to help. Being able to study maths alongside my course was great as I could continue down my career path without having to take time out.
“This is something I was determined to achieve and now that I have, I’m so happy.”
Mark Sorec
GCSE English and Maths
After ten years of working as a bus driver, Mark decided he wanted a change of career; however, he needed to improve his English and maths skills to progress. Wanting to teach, Mark decided to come to City College Plymouth to find out what he could do to get into the profession. Now Mark has achieved a grade 7 in English and a grade 4 in maths.
“I had heard great things about City College Plymouth and felt it would be a fantastic place to start down a new career path. The lessons are really enjoyable and I liked being challenged and just learning something new. My time at the College has been a tremendous help in furthering my career. Now I’ve got the grades I need to be able to work towards a teaching degree.”
Nelly Hayfron-Taylor
GCSE English and Maths
Working full-time and a mother to three children – with one more on the way – Nelly already had a busy lifestyle, however, she wanted to make time to return to learning. After being out of education for 14 years she was initially unsure about what to study, however with the help of City College Plymouth staff she was able to choose a course to fit around her commitments. Due to give birth any second, Nelly still came in to collect her envelope and was incredibly happy with the results.
“I am so happy to have achieved my grade 4s in my GCSEs; I can’t quite believe it! This is the first step towards my future career.”
“Studying GCSEs at the College, I have learnt a great deal and gained a better understanding of English and maths which has inspired me to apply for an Access to Higher Education course.
“Initially I felt lost, as I had been out of education for a long time. However, after being put in a class with like-minded people and dedicated teachers, I started to enjoy college life and my studies. Everyone is so helpful and positive. When I was struggling there were times when I nearly gave up, but I was always encouraged and given so much support, like one-to-ones with my lecturers and resources I could use in my free time. I now feel much more confident in my own abilities.
Britney Watts
GCSE English and Maths
Gaining level 4s in both her maths and English GCSEs, Britney was in shock that she had finally achieved the grades she needed. In September, she will be undergoing surgery as part of an ongoing medical condition. However, with her new found confidence in her academic abilities, she hopes to continue studying from home to complete a Level 2 Diploma in Travel and Tourism.
“I am so shocked! I am still in disbelief that I finally managed to get the grades. I have always struggled with English and maths, however, it all seemed easier thanks to the College. The smaller classes and one-to-one support have helped everything make sense and I can’t thank my lecturers enough.
“In September I will be recovering from surgery and the College have put everything into place so I can work from home – Google classroom makes accessing my College work easy; I’m so pleased I won’t miss out on my learning.”
