English and maths

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A welcome from the Head of Maths, English and Pathways - Lyn Boreham

I'm delighted you've chosen to study GCSE English or GCSE mathematics at Capel Manor College! Returning to education as an adult can feel like a big step, whether you're improving your qualifications for work, preparing for further study or simply achieving a personal goal. Whatever your reason for joining us, we're here to support you throughout your journey.

Our online GCSE courses are designed to fit around busy lives. You'll study from home through engaging online lessons, supported by experienced teachers who understand the challenges of balancing learning with work, family and other commitments. Although your teaching takes place online, you'll become part of a supportive learning community, with regular opportunities to ask questions, receive feedback and prepare for your examinations with confidence.

We look forward to helping you achieve the GCSE qualification you've been working towards!

Important information before you start

• All teaching is delivered live online using Microsoft Teams.

• Courses begin after the October half-term and continue until the summer GCSE examination series.

• You must be able to attend one of Capel Manor College's campuses to sit your GCSE examinations. We are unable to offer examinations at alternative centres.

• You'll need access to a computer or laptop with a reliable internet connection to participate fully in lessons.

• Regular independent study between lessons is essential to help you succeed in your GCSE examinations.

Course overview

Our GCSE English and GCSE mathematics courses are delivered entirely online, making it easier for you to study wherever you are. Throughout the course you'll attend weekly live online lessons, complete independent study and receive regular feedback from your teachers to help you make steady progress towards your GCSE.

Whether you're aiming to achieve a Grade 4 for employment, progression to university or simply to improve your confidence, our experienced teachers will support you every step of the way.

Three maths and English students at Capel Manor College sitting down to have their photo taken after a competition win.

Modules and structure (English)

Throughout your course you'll build the knowledge needed to succeed in your GCSE examinations. As your course progresses, you'll build confidence through regular practice, mock assessments and structured revision. You'll develop skills in:

  • Reading fiction and non-fiction texts
  • Analysing writers' language and techniques
  • Writing for different audiences and purposes
  • Spelling, punctuation and grammar
  • Developing clear written communication
  • Exam techniques and revision strategies
An adult learner at Capel Manor College smiling with their GCSE maths certificate.

Modules and structure (maths)

Throughout your course you'll build the knowledge needed to succeed in your GCSE examinations. As your course progresses, you'll build confidence through regular practice, mock assessments and structured revision. You'll develop skills in:

  • Numbers
  • Algebra
  • Ratio and proportion
  • Geometry and measures
  • Statistics
  • Probability
  • Mathematical reasoning and problem solving
  • Exam techniques and revision strategies
Capel Manor College student holding up their maths and English GCSE certificate.

Equipment and uniform (English)

Studying online means having the right equipment will help you get the most from your course. Your tutor will recommend suitable revision resources during induction. Before you start, we'd recommend having:

  • A reliable computer or laptop
  • A stable broadband internet connection
  • A webcam and microphone (built into most laptops)
  • A notebook and pens
  • A folder for your course materials
  • A GCSE revision guide
  • A revision workbook
  • Highlighters
  • Revision cards or flashcards
A stock image of a mathematical sum written down on paper.

Equipment and uniform (maths)

Studying online means having the right equipment will help you get the most from your course. Your tutor will recommend suitable revision resources during induction. Before you start, we'd recommend having:

  • A reliable computer or laptop
  • A stable broadband internet connection
  • A webcam and microphone (built into most laptops)
  • A notebook and pens
  • A folder for your course materials
  • A GCSE revision guide
  • A revision workbook
  • Highlighters
  • Revision cards or flashcards
  • A scientific calculator (we recommend Casio FX-83GTX or FX-85GTX)
  • A ruler
  • A protractor
  • A pair of compasses

Meet the team

Lyn Boreham

Rebecca Demetriou

Abul Hasnat

Stacey Hall
Capel Manor College student relaxing in the grounds of the Enfield Campus.

Preparing for study

If you'd like to get a head start before September, here are a few ideas:

Refresh your skills

Spend a little time revising the basics.

For English:

• Read newspaper articles, magazines or novels
• Listen to podcasts or documentaries and think about how ideas are communicated

For mathematics:

• Practice mental arithmetic
• Refresh fractions, percentages and decimals
• Use free online GCSE maths revision websites

Get organised

Think about where and when you'll study each week. Creating a regular study routine before the course starts will make balancing study with work and family commitments much easier.

Believe in yourself

Many of our learners haven't studied for years. Don't worry if you're feeling nervous - that's completely normal. Our teachers are experienced in supporting adult learners and will help you build your confidence from the very first lesson.

English and maths FAQs

Teaching takes place online, so you won't need to travel to college each week.

However, all learners must attend one of Capel Manor College's campuses to sit their GCSE examinations in the summer.

Your GCSE examinations will take place at one of Capel Manor College's approved examination centres.

We'll confirm your examination venue and timetable well in advance of the summer examination series.

Absolutely. Many of our learners return to education after a long break. Our teachers understand the challenges this can bring and will support you throughout your learning journey.

We're looking for commitment and enthusiasm, not recent classroom experience.

Alongside your weekly online lesson, you'll need to complete independent study and revision each week.

Most successful learners schedule regular study sessions into their weekly routine to help them stay on track throughout the year.

If you're unable to attend, please let your teacher know as soon as possible.

You'll be expected to catch up on any work you've missed, and your tutor will help you access the lesson materials and stay on track for your examinations.

Have questions?

Speak to our Admissions team via live chat from 9.30am to 4.30pm, Monday to Friday or email admissions@capel.ac.uk.