Teachers at Northampton College have praised the “inspiring” commitment and resilience shown by students resitting their GCSE maths and English exams, with results far exceeding national averages.
Across the country, thousands of students resit English and maths GCSEs if they don’t reach a grade 4. For many, it can mean the difference between getting onto the course they want or even securing future employment in their chosen career.
Students received their results this week for resits taken in November 2025.
Overall, 45 per cent of students on study programmes who sat GCSE English achieved a grade 4 (compared to a national average of 37 per cent) with 14 per cent achieving grade 5 and above. In maths, 40 per cent of students on study programmes achieved a grade 4, compared to a national average of 23 per cent.
These results will enable more students to progress onto Northampton College’s flagship programmes such as T Levels, L3 apprenticeships and go onto University Level programmes.
Deputy Principal Jo Philpott said: “GCSE resits in maths and English give students the chance to boost confidence and secure the grades they need for further study, apprenticeships, or work. To see so many of our students achieve grade 4 or above is brilliant, with performance well above the national average in both subjects.
“Those grades are earned through hard work and by completing revision activities, pushing through the pressure to make the progress required. The resilience and commitment they have shown is truly inspiring. It’s even more impressive when many sat the exams after only six weeks at college.
“Achieving a grade 4 in English and maths can be a genuine game-changer for our students. It opens doors to university, strengthens job prospects, and increases earning potential. It’s the kind of step that can shape someone’s future.
“Well done to every student who has put in so much hard work to achieve these outstanding results, and congratulations to our staff teams who have been there throughout to offer their support and guidance. It really has made the difference.”
For more information about Northampton College visit www.northamptoncollege.ac.uk
