The number of Northampton College students achieving high grades at GCSE is on the up ' with a focus on support for students and high expectations now reaping rewards.
More than one in three students (34 per cent) taking their English GCSE achieved a high grade (grade 4-9) while 27 per cent did so in maths (up from 24 per cent last year) - well above national averages for FE colleges.
The results back up the college's status as the leading provider of further education in the South East Midlands region and build on last year's Ofsted inspection, which rated the college as good' with outstanding features'.
Having turned 17 on Tuesday, Harry Heaphy celebrated his birthday in style by earning a grade 7 in English - the equivalent to an A grade. The result has given him the chance to study A Levels and he hopes to progress onto university and a potential career in journalism.
He said: "I'm absolutely over the moon. I needed a grade 5 and that was what I was hoping to get so to actually get a grade 7 is amazing. I'm buzzing."
Tatiana Lomakina, originally from Russia, wasn't confident about using the qualifications achieved in her homeland when applying for jobs in Northampton. Having studied at Booth Lane she now has a grade 8 in maths and will study accountancy from September.
She said: I'm very grateful to everyone at Northampton College, I had a brilliant tutor and it's a brilliant place to learn. I'd recommend it to anyone.
Overall, GCSE results at the College remained strong, with an overall pass rate of 97 per cent.
Principal of Northampton College, Pat Brennan-Barrett, said: We are thrilled to see so many people now able to progress and move on in their lives having achieved the grades they need at GCSE.
The increase in the number of students achieving high grades is particularly pleasing. We set high expectations of our students, making sure that they always attended their classes regularly and punctually and instilling a culture of hard work and determination. I am thrilled to see our students reap the rewards of months of dedication.
I am proud of our staff who have worked so hard to support their students throughout the year. They have made a real difference.
