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Need Advice on Appeal Against Withdrawal from College Course

I’m looking for some advice and support regarding my recent withdrawal from a PGCE course at New City College. I was removed from the course due to not meeting an entry requirement (a GCSE), but I have been excelling in the course—attending all sessions, submitting work on time, and receiving positive feedback on my performance.

I’ve also learned that for PGCE in Further Education, a GCSE isn’t always a strict requirement according to the Department for Education. I feel like there was a lack of discretion and support in my case, and the decision was based more on opinion than a fair assessment of my capabilities and mental well-being. The teacher even said they feared I might struggle, despite me finding the course manageable.

I’ve submitted an appeal with supporting documents and my concerns about how the situation was handled. I genuinely want to continue my studies and use this qualification to help others.

Has anyone gone through something similar or know how best to approach this type of appeal? Do I have any grounds to escalate it further or request a more formal review?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

Reply 1

Original post
by OB1990
I’m looking for some advice and support regarding my recent withdrawal from a PGCE course at New City College. I was removed from the course due to not meeting an entry requirement (a GCSE), but I have been excelling in the course—attending all sessions, submitting work on time, and receiving positive feedback on my performance.
I’ve also learned that for PGCE in Further Education, a GCSE isn’t always a strict requirement according to the Department for Education. I feel like there was a lack of discretion and support in my case, and the decision was based more on opinion than a fair assessment of my capabilities and mental well-being. The teacher even said they feared I might struggle, despite me finding the course manageable.
I’ve submitted an appeal with supporting documents and my concerns about how the situation was handled. I genuinely want to continue my studies and use this qualification to help others.
Has anyone gone through something similar or know how best to approach this type of appeal? Do I have any grounds to escalate it further or request a more formal review?
Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

So you are doing a level 7 course to teach others. You definitely need Maths/English GCSE. It is easy just get it done.

Reply 2

Original post
by MidxL
So you are doing a level 7 course to teach others. You definitely need Maths/English GCSE. It is easy just get it done.


I’m looking for genuine advice not judgement because I’m in a situation that’s starting to feel incredibly frustrating.

I’ve helped over 10 people get into apprenticeships through my own company, and together we’ve generated well over £1 million in revenue. I have both of the necessary qualifications myself, but I can’t currently find one of the physical certificates. Honestly, in the real world, experience and results speak louder than a piece of paper and I’ve proven that through the impact I’ve made.

That said, I understand systems have rules, but I’m just looking for real solutions. I’m fully qualified, experienced, and have delivered results at a high level but this one missing document is becoming a barrier, and I need advice on how to move forward.

Appreciate any help or direction anyone can offer. Thanks in advance.
Original post
by OB1990
I’m looking for genuine advice not judgement because I’m in a situation that’s starting to feel incredibly frustrating.

I’ve helped over 10 people get into apprenticeships through my own company, and together we’ve generated well over £1 million in revenue. I have both of the necessary qualifications myself, but I can’t currently find one of the physical certificates. Honestly, in the real world, experience and results speak louder than a piece of paper and I’ve proven that through the impact I’ve made.

That said, I understand systems have rules, but I’m just looking for real solutions. I’m fully qualified, experienced, and have delivered results at a high level but this one missing document is becoming a barrier, and I need advice on how to move forward.

Appreciate any help or direction anyone can offer. Thanks in advance.

Contact the exam board and order a certified statement of results:

https://www.gov.uk/replacement-exam-certificate

Reply 4

Original post
by MidxL
So you are doing a level 7 course to teach others. You definitely need Maths/English GCSE. It is easy just get it done.

I've only got the adult numeracy and literacy level 2 equivalent to A star and I'm doing PGCE

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