Hard-working Lakes College students are celebrating their GCSE achievements with many progressing on to the next stage of their journey.
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, the college changed the way in which results are normally distributed face-to-face to learners, instead emailing the grades.
Brandon Faunch, 20, from Crosby, said he was surprised but is over the moon with his results.
“I’m so happy to have achieved a grade 4 in my maths GCSE. This was my fourth attempt at achieving the grade so I’m chuffed to bits. I’m now going on to study the Level 3 Digital Technologies course at the college.”
Brandon’s mum, Dawn Faunch, said: “Brandon has worked so hard and put a lot of time into his maths revision and preparation. He’s gone the extra mile and I’m absolutely ecstatic that he’s achieved his level 4 result!”
Nathan Campbell, 19 from Workington, achieved a grade 4 in his maths GCSE. He said, “I’m ecstatic with my maths result after trying so many times to get it. I’ll be celebrating at home with my family due to the pandemic but would like to thank my tutor Sarah as I couldn’t have done it without her!”
Leandra Muir, 17 from Maryport, achieved a grade 4 in her English GCSE. “I’m really happy about my grade after trying for the 2nd time to get it. I’ll be celebrating at home and will be going on to study a Level 3 course in Beauty.”
This year’s students from the Workington-based college have made history after the country was put into lockdown in March, meaning all learning was switched to remote.
Principal Chris Nattress has praised the students who have not let these obstacles stand in their way.
“Our students never cease to amaze me. Securing a good pass in GCSE maths and English is a very important step for most people, and we work very hard to support the students we have each year that are aiming to achieve that pass with us.” he said.
“COVID19 presented some real challenges to our students and their teachers this year, including temporary closure of our site, however, despite those challenges we have well over 150 students who have been awarded their GCSE. They’ve really earned it. This is fantastic news and a testament to their hard work, commitment and dedicated staff. Well done everyone!”
Eliza Treme-Swailes, Director of Further and Higher Education at Lakes College, said she was thrilled with the results.
She said, “Every year we’re so proud of what our learners here at Lakes achieve. This year we’re especially impressed with the commitment and fortitude our learners have shown during the COVID lockdown.
“Many learners have worked through difficult personal circumstances to achieve their qualifications, with some even working throughout the period as Key Workers and still managing to complete their programmes with outstanding marks.
“We’re especially thankful to all the parents, carers and employers who have supported our learners during this period. We can’t wait to see what our wonderful learners do next in their career journeys.”
