There was another morning of celebrations at a West Cumbrian college as students received their GCSE maths and English results.
A second year of no exams, due to the pandemic, has not stopped the students at the Lillyhall-based Lakes College achieving top grades.
Chris Nattress, principal said: “I’m delighted that so many of our GCSE students have been awarded fantastic results today, which they thoroughly deserve.
“Their commitment and dedication throughout very challenging circumstances during the last academic year has really paid off and I’m thrilled to see so many top and high grades.
“All the staff here at our brilliant college thank them for their resilience and great spirit during COVID-19 circumstances and wish them all the very best for their next steps.”
Lakes College offers GCSE classes to 16 to 18-year-old students, as well as adult learners, one of which being Amy Robinson who achieved a grade 6 in English and a 5 in Maths.
She said: “I can’t quite believe it, I’m still in shock because I didn’t think I would do that well.
“Time was a struggle as I’m a mother and have a part-time job, but this has given me the confidence to take the next step and hopefully one day train to be a paramedic.”
Another adult learner who received a 5 in maths was Samantha Baker, who will now progress onto the college’s Access to Higher Education course with her results.
She said: “I’m really happy with my results, I didn’t know what to expect – but I’m really pleased!”
Maths lecturer Jason Graham said he was really proud of his students.
He added: “Well done to all the fabulous students from this year, we guide you but you are ones that deserve the credit, you had to do the work!”
Curriculum team leader for English, Michelle Proudman and English lecturer, Rebecca Pearson added: “We are so proud of the work produced by all our students, and wish them all the best in their next steps.”
Level 2 art student Mitchell Hill, received a grade 4 in GCSE English after spending a large proportion of the year shielding.
He said: “Starting college in the middle of a pandemic while shielding was a real challenge!
“Thankfully Lakes College were always there when I needed them and the online lessons were excellent.
“It’s been different but I’ve really enjoyed my year, so much that I’m returning in September thanks to my GCSE results. I’m so happy with everything I’ve achieved so far!”
Level 2 motor vehicle student, Aidan Mann is now hoping to progress onto Level 3 after achieving a grade 6 in English saying: “I wasn’t expecting it, so I’m surprised, but really proud of myself.”
Brogan Purdy said she was chuffed about her grade 4 in maths. The 19-year-old said: “I found maths quite hard, this was my fourth attempt but I’ve passed and now I’m one step closer to getting to where I want to be!”
