Teenagers and adults at Mansfield college celebrate GCSE and vocational results

A total of 1,099 students studied one or more GCSE subjects at the college this year, largely due to the government’s requirement for young people aged 16 to 18 who have not achieved a grade 4 or above in English and maths to re-take these subjects while in post-16 education.

In addition to students that retake their GCSEs, the college also has many adult learners who attend evening classes to improve on their original grades, usually so they can move on to higher-level study and re-train for a new career.

Meanwhile, students also received results for technical and vocational qualifications, including City & Guilds Technicals and BTEC Firsts, both at level 2.

Andrew Cropley, principal and chief executive, said: “Well done to all those who have achieved their passes in GCSE English, mathematics and biology today.

“Most of these students had never sat a formal exam before coming to college and last year they received a disappointing outcome through the teacher-assessed grades process after two hugely disrupted years. This makes their achievement all the more creditable.

“We’ve also seen many adult learners improve on their GCSE grades in key subjects, having made the decision to return to education as a mature student, often with a career change in mind. Many have combined their studies with working full-time, which requires major commitment.

“Achieving these GCSEs is a huge benefit in opening doors to further study and future employment opportunities and I’m very proud of all those who have done so.

“Congratulations also to all those who received the results of their level 2 vocational and technical courses. Again, these demanding qualifications will provide a great springboard onto further learning, employment or apprenticeships.

“Huge thanks to all those teachers and support staff who have shown great creativity, dedication and patience in helping their students achieve these important and demanding milestones.

“We’re excited to be welcoming back many of these students over the next couple of weeks so they can take their studies to the next level, and we send those leaving us to pursue their careers or a higher education programme our very best wishes.”