Adult learners who have studied through Learn Devon, our adult education service, are among those who received their GCSE results today (Thursday 20 August).
This year saw 79% of Learn Devon’s adult learners pass their English GCSE and 73% passed their Maths GCSE – above the national benchmark of 67%. Many of them visited their local Learn Devon centre to collect their results, where staff were on hand to congratulate them on their achievements.
Among those to gain their GCSEs were:
Gemma Beenham – passed GCSE Maths with a grade 4.
She said: “I woke up this morning and I thought I had failed when I saw the grade boundaries on the Pearson Edexcel website.
“I tried to count marks throughout my exam so I thought I might pass. When I saw the grade boundaries, I really didn’t think that I would pass, but I was really pleased to see that I did in fact get the grade, at grade 4. I’m genuinely in disbelief.
“I had Owen as my tutor and he was really good, he helped and explained things in different ways so that we understood. He really cared about us.
“I’ve got a few plans; I’m hoping to do cabin crew on an airline but that could change now that I have my English and Maths qualifications. It’s opened more doors for me.”
Olena Paksiutkina – passed GCSE English with grade 5 and merit. Olena is originally from Ukraine.
She said: “I’ve taken my GCSE English four times, and I have now passed! I feel a great sense of achievement.
“Sarah Brandt and Nell Osborne made all the difference in the classroom. Nell provided additional support in her own time. People were listening to me and they gave me the chance. Karen and Vanessa were a great support with getting ready and supporting me with computer issues and other concerns in the classroom.
“Joe Green, Learn Devon’s SENCo, helped me with my health condition and got me additional time during the exam. I’m an extra anxious person. At Learn Devon, the atmosphere is so friendly, everyone is making sure you’re alright.”
Lauren White – passed GCSE English with a grade 5.
She said: “Speechless, I’m never speechless but I am right now. I loved the classes – I actuality miss doing them. The tutor, Sarah, was amazing, the most lovely person ever. It was my first time learning online. I was really nervous at first but thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Learn Devon offers free GCSE English and Maths qualifications, with courses starting in September and in January.
Councillor Cheryl Cottle-Hunkin, Cabinet Member with responsibility for adult education, said:
“Congratulations to everyone who received their GCSE results today and it’s great to see Learn Devon’s pass rates above national benchmarks. Whether you’re an adult learner or a school student, it’s a big day, and I hope everyone achieved what they were aiming for.
“For many adults, returning to education may feel like a huge step, but thousands of people are studying a variety of courses through Learn Devon. Whether it’s to gain new skills or qualifications to build confidence, progress your career or kickstart new job opportunities, it’s never too late to learn.”
Learn Devon offers a range of free adult education courses across Devon. Courses cover a variety of subject areas including Digital Skills & IT, Health and social care, Education and childcare, as well as English and Maths.
For more information visit Learn Devon’s website.