Earlier this year, we spoke to Byron, Kara and Wendy, three of our adult learners, who all studied our GCSE Maths evening course.
They spoke of their College experience, why they came back to education, and what surprised them about being back in education.
We caught up again with them recently, where they spoke about how studying as an adult at EKC Sheppey College has changed their life.
We’re pleased to see that all three passed GCSE Maths, with the entire adult learning cohort for GCSE Maths securing a pass (Grade 4 or above).
Read what they had to say below:
Byron – Grade 4:
How did you feel collecting your results?
“I didn’t feel the most confident I must admit as I’m not really a confident person anyway, but it was way better than I thought so I couldn’t be more pleased.”
What are you looking to do next?
“I may even go onto GCSE English, because doing this course and passing this course has given me the confidence that I can do it. I never in a million years would have thought that I could do this, and now look at me. It’s great.”
How has the support been?
“It’s been exceptional, I couldn’t have asked for better support really. I think Christine, our lecturer, understood that we only really had eight months to do it, compressed from a two-year course. She understood that and her lesson plans were perfect in accommodating that.”
What’s your advice for a future student?
“Do it, even if you think you can’t do it or you’re not capable, or you were rubbish at school, like I was. I couldn’t do it but look at where I’m at now. I’ve got a Grade 4 and I’ve done it. Again, never in a million years did I think I could do it. If I can do it, you can do it.”
Kara – Grade 4:
How does it feel to pass?
“It feels amazing, I can’t really put it into words or even explain how relieved I feel.”
How has the support been?
“It’s been great, I can’t fault any of my lecturers. They’re happy, they’re supportive, they really want what is best for you and it shows, it shines through.”
What are you hoping to do now?
“Now that I have my GCSE Maths, I’m going onto GCSE English, as it’s a teaching degree that I’m after. Obviously, I didn’t do well the first time round when I was at school, but now I’m working harder, I’ll put my GCSEs behind me and then go to university.”
What’s your advice for a future student?
“Revise! I didn’t do as much as I could have, but I put the effort in and I passed. Make sure you also believe in yourself.”
Wendy – Grade 5:
How does it feel to have passed GCSE Maths?
“It feels amazing to have passed, because I never took my GCSEs when I was at school all those years ago, and I never thought I could again, so the fact that I got a 5 makes me absolutely thrilled.”
How did you feel about collecting the results?
“I felt very excited coming in. I didn’t bother with the nerves as it was already done and the result was determined, but I was excited to come here and collect them in-person. I didn’t experience GCSEs at all, so I didn’t know what to expect.”
How do you feel the staff have supported you?
“I felt really supported during my studies at College. I used to get encouraging emails when I needed help as well as being in the class itself surrounded by other adults. There’s lots of support.”
What advice do you have for future students?
“That’s a tricky one! I would apply myself and make sure that I did at least half an hour every day of Maths, but if you can put a certain amount of time aside and stick to it then it really does help. The time you put into it really does reap rewards.”
Congratulations once again to Byron, Kara and Wendy on their GCSE Maths success.
If you’re looking to develop your skills, start a new career or just regain confidence in your learning, our adult courses are a great place to start.
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