Sometimes learners will get a ‘lightbulb moment’ which transforms their attitude to studying – and that was certainly the case for Drama student Fiona Oakley.
Gaining a grade 4 in her maths GCSE in June was a tremendous achievement after a very challenging start to the year.
Fiona had originally been assigned to a Level 1 class, but promised tutor Annie Dehaney-Steven that she would work hard if she could be transferred to the GCSE class. At first – as one of a lively group of drama students in the class – she struggled to concentrate but, having been warned about her behaviour and lack of progress, she changed her attitude.
“Before Christmas I distributed revision books to the class, fully expecting most of them not to be opened,” explains Annie. “Fiona, however, came back to class with lots of questions, having started working through the book.”
“After that she never stopped working. She complained if the class was too noisy, brought me problems she couldn’t solve alone, and became a model student.”
Fiona’s hard work and commitment were rewarded when she gained her grade 4 GCSE.
Annie says: “Her success wasn’t due to innate ability or my cajoling her. It was due entirely to her own work and determination. I am SO proud of her!”
