Surbiton High School proudly announces the remarkable achievements of adult learners in the IGCSE English programme under its Community Classrooms initiative, part of the school’s Community Outreach Programme.
In 2023, Surbiton High School introduced IGCSE in English for adult learners, marking a significant milestone. Out of the eight participants who undertook the exam, an impressive five have successfully passed. This accomplishment is particularly noteworthy as seven out of the eight learners achieved success despite English being their second or, in some cases, third language.
The diverse cohort included learners from Hungary, Hong Kong, India, Ukraine, Turkey, Chile, and England. Notably, two learners from Ukraine, who moved to England to escape the war, embraced the course to improve job prospects. One learner achieved a Grade 5 despite limited English proficiency, demonstrating the transformative impact of education. As a parent of a Surbiton High School pupil, he aimed to exemplify the tangible benefits of academic achievement.
Another outstanding achievement comes from a British learner, a Surbiton High School parent, who aimed to prove to her daughter that academic success is achievable. This determination resulted in an exceptional Grade 9.
Similarly, an adult learner from Hungary, having relocated to England, scored a Grade 8, focusing on enhancing language skills for better communication with colleagues. A student from India, working in the fashion industry with Hindi as her first language, scored a Grade 7, motivated by the desire to support her two daughters in British Schools. Additionally, a Language Assistant from Chile achieved a Grade 5, emphasising the commitment to improving communication skills with students.
Two learners from Hong Kong, lifelong friends who moved to England, aimed to enhance their English for job prospects and to better enjoy British culture. Despite language barriers, they achieved a Grade 3 and a Grade 2, a notable accomplishment. Special thanks were extended to Mrs. Maria Goodson for her dedicated efforts in assisting these students.
While several students attended classes, some were unable to sit the exam, including individuals from Syria, Turkey, Iran, and Korea.
Mr Grant Allan, Teacher of English, shared, “It was a heart-warming experience that will stay with me forever. I am incredibly proud of each individual and truly believe that one act of kindness can change a life. The class taught me so much about culture, diversity, struggle, and appreciation that will help shape who I am as life continues.”
Congratulations are extended to all participants, and those who passed now hold internationally recognised IGCSEs awarded by the examining board, Edexcel, with certificates to be issued in March.
Special thanks go to Mrs. Maria Goodson and Mr. Stuart Bird, along with Mr. Grant Allan, who contributed significantly to the success of the Community Classrooms initiative.
Mr. Grant Allan, Teacher of English, shared, “It was a heart-warming experience that will stay with me forever. I am incredibly proud of each individual and truly believe that one act of kindness can change a life. The class taught me so much about culture, diversity, struggle, and appreciation that will help shape who I am as life continues.”
Learn more about Surbiton High School's Community Outreach Programme by visiting www.surbitonhigh.com.