Croydon students celebrated their GCSE results on Thursday (21 August), marking years of hard work and determination.
This cohort of students were the year group that, as a result of the pandemic, missed much of their year 6 and had an unsettled start to year 7 – so they overcame many challenges to achieve their outcomes.
At Oasis Academy Arena, Melissa Cagatay, 16, joined the school in Year 8 from Romania, where English was her second language.
She said: “It was hard at first as I didn’t know anyone and everything was different from what I’d been used to. The teachers helped me to settle in, and it got better after that. I love the teachers – they care so much and really get to know the students.”
Melissa was delighted with her results and is going on to study law, psychology and sociology.
Principal of Oasis Academy Arena, Mrs Jeanette Bell said: “The dedication of staff and the hard work, resilience and determination of students, many of whom joined us part way through their secondary education and/or without English language skills, continues to build on our culture of aspiration and success. We are thrilled to celebrate these outcomes with our students, their families and our staff.”
Meanwhile, Marina Stawarz was among the top performing students at Ark Blake Academy, with five 9s, two 8s and two 7s. She said: “I worked really hard and am pleased that the effort I put in shows. It really helped that teachers ran extra classes in the school holidays and really focussed on us.”
Sam Rispoli, Principal of Ark Blake Academy, who received their first set of GCSE results this year, added: “Our students should be incredibly proud of what they have achieved – not just the numbers but also the growth and resilience they have shown.”
Oasis Academy Coulsdon celebrated it highest results ever, among them was student, Jamin Vara, who secured six 9s and four 8s.
Two students at Oasis Academy Coulsdon have also secured places at world-renowned BRIT School, in Selhurst, to study Production Arts and Film Production. One student will study Public Services with a view to joining The Army, whilst another will be starting an apprenticeship with Virgin Atlantic.
“We are very proud of Croydon’s students who got their GCSE and vocational study results. It is wonderful to see their hard work rewarded. We are also thankful to Croydon’s teachers and families who have supported them throughout their journey.
“It is my priority to make sure that all children and young people in Croydon have access to opportunities to further their education and careers and it’s great to see the variety of further education avenues this cohort are taking up.”
Jason Perry, Executive Mayor of Croydon
Students can get advice and discuss their options with Croydon Council’s Post 16 Participation Team. Call: 020 8726 7485, email: Post16@croydon.gov.uk or visit our website for more information.
Other support is available locally at Off the Record and Croydon Drop In https://croydondropin.org.uk/.
