Students have been celebrating today after receiving their GCSE results, marking the culmination of months of hard work and determination.
The atmosphere on campus was full of excitement as learners collected their grades, many achieving results that will propel them to the next step in their education or career.
For some, this means progressing to higher-level courses here at EKC Ashford College, while others are preparing to begin Apprenticeships or move into employment.
We caught up with some of our successful students to hear their thoughts and what they’re off to do next.
Stand out GCSE Maths student Bahareh received an impressive grade 7 (A) in her GCSE Maths qualification. She will be progressing onto a Level 2 Accounting course in September.
When asked about her journey to completing this qualification she told us: “It’s been a long and sometimes tough journey since I started here and moved to the UK in 2022, but with the support of my teachers and the College, I’ve been able to achieve all the qualifications I needed. The support has been incredible, my teachers really helped me find the right pathway.
“Along the way, I’ve made friends and built great relationships with teachers. I would recommend the college to anyone who is thinking about joining”
Tyler’s passion for Music shone through as he told us how excited he is to start his Level 3 now he has received a Grade 4 (C) in both GCSE English and GSCE Maths.
Tyler told us: “I studied Level 2 Music Performance and Production alongside English and Maths. I passed my Music course, which I really enjoyed because I’ve had a passion for music ever since I was in hospital as a child.
“When I was younger, I went through a tough period of surgeries on my right foot and years of physiotherapy to relearn how to walk. Because of this, I missed over half of my school years, and it made my exams really difficult.
“Coming to college has completely changed things for me. I’ve gained confidence, built a social life again, and found a fresh start. Being here has been brilliant – it feels like I’ve restarted my life, and I’ve loved every moment of it.”
Now she has completed her GCSE English exam, Michelle is progressing into GCSE Maths at EKC Ashford College, she described Maths as her ‘enemy’ but is determined to pass so she is in a good position to help her son with his exams.
Through her tears of joy Michelle exclaimed: “The College has been amazing, my tutors have really supported me, and I’ll miss them after two years together. My favourite thing has been the learning and having such great teachers.
“Next for me is studying maths, which is my enemy! But I want to conquer it to help my little one again. I’m ecstatic to have passed, and today we’re going out to Hastings to celebrate!”
Congratulations Michelle, your perseverance really has paid off.
Amongst those celebrating, was Level 2 Plumbing student Josh. He received a Merit in his Level 2 Plumbing course and found out that he passed his GSCE Maths with a Grade 4 (C).
”I finally passed my Maths with a Grade 4 (C), it took me a couple of tries, but second time lucky! My next step is to find a Plumbing Apprenticeship.”
When asked about College Josh shared: “College is very different from school, in a good way. There’s more freedom, teachers are more relaxed, and you can call them by their first names, which makes it feel less strict and more supportive.”
His advice to new students is to go in with an open mind and always try your hardest.
When Haleh arrived in the UK in 2022, she could ‘barely speak English’. Today she received the news that she has passed her English GCSE qualification which was vital in helping her to progress to university.
After a few squeals of joy and plenty of proud hugs, Halen told us: “I achieved a Distinction in my Access to HE course, plus a Grade 6 in Maths and a Grade 4 in English.
“My next step is University, and I’ll be starting Physiotherapy at London South Bank University in September.
“My time at College has been incredible, the support was like family, not just academic help. Since I don’t live with my family here, the College community became my family.
“When I first joined three years ago, I could barely speak English. The staff were patient and kind, helping me grow step-by-step until I reached this point. Now I am ready for my next steps.”
Principal of EKC Ashford College, Lucy Clark, commented: “I am incredibly proud of our College’s GCSE results this year. These achievements are a testament to the hard work, resilience, and commitment of our learners, as well as the dedication and expertise of our staff.
“Success like we have seen today can only be achieved through true teamwork, and it is inspiring to see what can be accomplished when we all work together towards a shared goal.”
We would like to congratulate all our students on their fantastic achievements and wish them every success for the future.
Still deciding your next steps?
If your results have made you rethink your plans, or you haven’t decided yet – it’s not too late to start a course with us this September.
We offer a wide range of programmes to help you gain skills, qualifications and confidence for your future.
Explore our subject areas and apply today.
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