Published: Thursday, 24th August 2023
Adult learners across Oldham today joined hundreds of excited pupils across the borough in opening their eagerly anticipated GCSE results.
Learners visited Oldham Library & Lifelong Learning Centre to discover their well-earned grades in English and maths, as tutors joined them in their celebrations.
During the morning, Maliha Latif, 32 from Chadderton, achieved a Level 4 in her maths and is now going on to study a postgraduate certificate in education. 35-year-old Madiha Ali, from Coldhurst, also gained a Level 5 in maths and is now set for a volunteer teaching programme.
The two learners (both pictured) first attended Oldham Lifelong Learning as they both aspire to become teachers.
More results are due to be opened later this evening from learners who attend night classes, with all learners set to return in November to enjoy a formal celebration evening to recognise their achievements.
Councillor Mohon Ali, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills, said: “Firstly, I want to say a massive congratulations to all our learners who are celebrating their exam results today.
“They have all worked incredibly hard for their grades and I wish them all the greatest success going forward with whatever direction they have chosen. I would also like to thank our tutors for their hard work in supporting our residents to achieve these results over the last 12 months.
"Today highlights a fantastic example of the opportunities available here in Oldham and through our Lifelong Learning Centre, residents can work to obtain new qualifications, enhance their career prospects and progress their learning through many of our great courses.
“We are really keen to support our residents’ aspirations so I encourage anyone who is interested in learning something new to get involved with our Lifelong Learning Service.”
The council’s Lifelong Learning Service runs a wide range of subjects, programmes, qualifications, levels and short courses for residents aged 19 and above.
These opportunities not only help to improve people’s confidence and wellbeing, but also help to develop their skills and further their interests in a particular area.
The service enrols around 3,000 learners each year and has an overall qualification achievement rate of 94 per cent, with 99 per cent of learners saying that their learning experience was excellent or good.
If you are aged 19 and over and looking to pick up a new interest or skill that could help you with a change in career or employment, have a look at the council’s Lifelong Learning service for more information at www.oldham.gov.uk/lifelonglearning.
English and Maths are free to anyone who hasn’t already gained their GCSE qualification, while other courses may also be available for free or at a reduced cost depending on people’s personal circumstances.
Residents are advised to consult with the service directly before booking on to a course.
Oldham Lifelong Learning Service was graded ‘Good’ by Ofsted in December 2021.