Almost 400 teenagers who failed to pass GCSE English and maths last year passed the two key subjects at Suffolk New College in Ipswich this summer.
It is compulsory for teenagers aged 16 to 18 who do not achieve a pass mark in either subject to resit the exams at college.
A total of 228 out of 663 (34%) students passed GCSE English after resitting the exam this year at Suffolk New College.
For maths, 164 out of 637 (26%) students achieved at least a grade C or above. The new 9-1 numerical grading scale was not used for the resits, which used the traditional A*-G system.
Nationally, 22.7% of students do not pass English or maths when they resit the key subjects.
Jayne Sheehan, head of English and maths at the college, said: “In terms of our full time 16 to 18 year old students, we are delighted that we were able to help both the 228 students receive a grade C or above with us in English and the 164 maths students, who previously gained a grade D or below at school.
“We would also like to say a huge well done to the 103 adult learners who took the new English exam. Over 50% of those who took this exam gained a grade between 9 and 4 (equivalent of C or above).
“We will continue to invest in our English and maths facilities at Suffolk New College so that we can ensure that students who come to study with us have the best possible chance of success.”
One student who passed both subjects was Karolina Kausnauskaite, 17, who moved to Ipswich from Lithuania last year.
She said: “I’m really happy and proud of myself. I got a C in English and a C in maths.
“I studied hard and it’s marvellous news. I had good teachers and great support from my family. I’m delighted.”
She will study a level two business course at the college from September.
Another 17-year-old, Tommy Sawyer, from Ipswich, passed English at the second attempt.
He said: “I got lots more help this time around.The tutors have really helped me – I’ve got a lot to be thankful for.”
Britney Sewell, 17, also from Ipswich who passed English, added: “This will help open up job opportunities – this (grade C in English) is what people are looking for.
“The support from the college was good. You get more independence than at school.”
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