GCSE students at West Lancashire College recently took part in a series of highly engaging workshops delivered by two specialist external speakers, designed to boost confidence, skills, and exam readiness in Maths and English.
Natacha Shakil, a Maths and Mastery Specialist, delivered three sessions for their GCSE Maths students, building on the college’s ongoing work with ‘CanDoMaths’. Her workshops focused on developing a strong growth mindset and empowering students to believe in their ability to succeed in maths.
Through practical activities and discussion, Natacha explored key themes including motivation, resilience, manifestation, and effective exam techniques. She also introduced simple and accessible maths strategies, highlighting real-world applications of maths, and addressed common barriers to learning. With exams approaching, the sessions emphasised the importance of confidence, attitude, and perseverance in achieving personal bests and making meaningful progress.
The College’s English GCSE students also benefited from a series of creative writing workshops led by Nathan Parker, an independent author and spoken word artist from Blackpool. Nathan worked closely with students to support the development of their storytelling and narrative writing skills in preparation for their upcoming exams.
The sessions provided students with practical writing techniques, expert guidance, and encouragement to refine their ideas and express themselves with confidence. Engaging and motivational in approach, the workshops helped students build creativity, strengthen their written communication, and feel more prepare for their exam narratives.
Alex Huskisson, Head of Adult Skills said, “These workshops provided our GCSE students with valuable inspiration and practical tools at a crucial point in the academic year. Both Natacha and Nathan brought energy, expertise, and encouragement into Hope Theatre, helping students build confidence, resilience, and belief in their own abilities as they prepare for their exams.”
West Lancashire College continues to enhance learning experiences through specialist workshops, supporting their students academically while building confidence, resilience and a positive mindset in the lead-up to exams.