BEST BIRTHDAY PRESENT EVER!

Two weeks ago, Oasis Academy Coulsdon student, Jayde Yankey had to escape the flames of Reeves Corner, Croydon, where she lives with her Mum. But today, on her 16th Birthday, the horror of the riots disappeared when she received the best birthday present ever: 16 GCSEs all with top A* - C grades!

“The past two weeks have been a bit of a blur; I haven’t had time to think about my birthday at all. The riots were pretty scary, there were three fires raging around our home and we had to evacuate and go and stay with my Aunt. I’ve been nervous about my results but today is the best day ever! I’m so pleased and relieved - now I can really celebrate my birthday” said Jayde.

Jayde is currently on a Government funded Challenge Course based at Kingston University with 60 other teenagers. The three week project involves a week adventure and survival skill training course including mountain climbing, abseiling and rock climbing, followed by a two week community project working with children in the local community. “It’s really good, we are having fun but we’re also learning a lot and giving something back to the community” said Jayde.

Jayde has ambitions to become a Fashion Designer is planning to study Art, Textiles, Photography and English Literature at A Level. She will be one of the very first Sixth Form students at Oasis Academy Coulsdon as the £18.7m rebuild of the Academy approaches the final stage of completion. A brand new Post 16 centre for up to 250 students opens in September and Jayde can’t wait to start.

Presenting Jayde with a birthday cake and balloon, Principal, David Millar said: “Jayde and her family have obviously had a truly shocking experience; we are so pleased they are safe and well and I am sure they will all be celebrating her 16th birthday present! I look forward to Jayde joining our 6th Form and continuing with her success at Oasis Academy Coulsdon.”

GCSE results at Oasis Academy Coulsdon have reached record-breaking levels. Since opening in September 2008, the Academy has seen a dramatic 42% increase in overall attainment levels. Initial analysis of the figures indicate that this year 93% of students achieved 5 or more GCSEs at A*-C. With 50% achieving the crucial 5 A*-C including Maths and English (13% rise from 2010).

“Students and staff can be very proud of their achievements and fully deserve this success. We will continue in our drive to improve attainment levels and provide the very best education to our students.” Said David Millar.