FE Community - Further Education, Skills & Employability Communication Network

Hard working mums celebrate GCSE success

New College Nottingham (ncn) GCSE students collected their results on 25 August. Among the successful students were a number of adult learners who returned to education to change career or to improve their prospects.

Forty-two-year-old single mum of two, Melony Allen, achieved five A grades in English Language, Maths, Religious Studies, History and Psychology.

She said: “I’m relieved the wait is over and I’m absolutely thrilled with my results. I would definitely say to anyone thinking of going back into education, no matter how old you are, to just go for it! I’ve had a great experience at ncn. My tutors have been so supportive. I’m now looking forward to starting my ‘A’ Levels at ncn High Pavement in September.

Suzanne Sadeghi, 28, has also managed to balance a busy family life – looking after her seven-year-old son and three-year-old twins – with studying at ncn. Her A* in English and B in Maths means she can progress to an Access to Social Science course at ncn in September. She dreams of becoming a teacher in the future.

She commented: “When I took my GCSE exams the first time round I wasn’t motivated or committed enough to make the best of my abilities. Being older and knowing what I want out of College has made studying an enjoyable experience.

“I haven’t found studying as a single parent as difficult as I first thought. I’ve been able to manage my time and get into a routine which works for me and my family.

“It was my inspirational tutors that made me want to teach. In the same way they encouraged and inspired me through my studies, I hope to have the same positive impact on others.”