Mature student secures top grade in the GCSE she always wanted

An adult learner who missed much of her school years because of a bleed on the brain has achieved the GCSE she always wanted.

Natasha Moroni, from Birstall, secured a Grade 9 in GCSE English Language at Loughborough College after returning to the classroom at the age of 34.

She said: “I’ve always been good at English, but health issues meant I was in and out of school and that disrupted my education. I always knew I would do it again because I have always loved reading and enjoyed English. I am quietly ecstatic.

“Having the GCSE has made me more confident in writing. I wanted to learn to write letters and now want to do English Literature and it has given me the confidence to pursue more.”

Although she studied for a Criminology degree at Loughborough University in 2016, Natasha was determined to prove to herself she could achieve a top GCSE English grade.

“I don’t know what I want to do in the future. I did a criminology degree but knew I always wanted to go back and do English again,” she said.

Returning to the classroom in her 30s, Natasha once again faced disruption caused by Arterial Venous Malformation (AVM).

“I had a seizure and was induced into a coma for three days and was in intensive care before the exams, the first thing I said to the Drs was that I had to do my (mock) GCSE exam. But I had a lot of work that I could use instead of the exam,” Natasha said.

“I really enjoyed college, I never slept the night before as I wanted to go in on the Monday. I had a great time and would love to go back.”

, Loughborough College CEO and Principal said: “We’re thrilled for Natasha and delighted that she has finally been able to achieve the qualification she always wanted to get.

“She has shown that if you’re passionate about improving your life and your skills, it’s never too late and Loughborough College is a great place to come and do it.

“These have been some of the most challenging years for our students, so to achieve such an amazing grade and complete her English GCSE in spite of COVID-19 and health issues, is a testament to her determination.”