James Brown feels good after GCSE success second time around
James Brown, 34, from Ipswich came back to study GCSEs in English and maths at Suffolk New College.
He said: “I didn’t do very well as a teenager at school.
“But I came back to college (in later life) and got a grade 8 in English and a grade 4 in maths (this year) in comparison with a D/E in English and an F in maths when I was at school. The college has given me confidence in myself. They believed in me.
“My teachers here were more involved with my learning (in comparison with school). On opening the envelope, I was very happy and surprised.
“I’m now going to enrol on an access course in science (at Suffolk New College). I’m thinking I may go and do a degree in physiotherapy. Or I may set up a bakery.”
And on being asked if he was feeling good like his namesake (James Brown the musician), he said: “Yes.”
46-year-old mum of two takes GCSE in English to inspire her children
Joanne Hoy from Ipswich then gets top marks and now plans to write a novel
Joanne Hoy, 46, from Ipswich took a GCSE in English this year to inspire her children and try and better her result from 30 years ago.
She said: “I did the GCSE as when I took English 30 years ago, that result was a let-down. And I really I could inspire my children who are now in that (GCSE) process.
“I can’t believe that I got a 9. I said something funny (in my exam) and it paid off for me.
In terms of advice to others for adult learners, Joanne said: “I’d say give it everything you’ve got. This (Suffolk New College) is such a supportive environment. I’d like to thank everyone involved.
And now the mother of two who works in technology has decided to write a book. On this she said: “I’ve had a novel in my head for 14 or 15 years and I’m going to get on with it now. This is the endorsement I feel I needed to carry on. I’d love it if my book was good enough to be turned into a screenplay. If you can make people feel something, that is one of the most powerful gifts.”
Second time lucky for 17-year-old Anahid
Anahid Grigorian, 17, from Felixstowe passed a GCSE at the second time of asking.
The hospitality student – who is progressing on to another course at Suffolk New College – was delighted with her success.
Anahid said: “I passed English and maths with grade 4’s in both. It’s brilliant. My advice to others taking GCSE resits is to revise.”