Ukrainian Teen in Coventry Shines in GCSEs
- Ukrainian teen in Coventry achieves success in GCSE exams despite language barrier.
- Displaced by war two years ago, Roman's academic achievements make his mom proud.
- A heartwarming story of resilience and success in the face of adversity.
A 16-year-old Ukrainian refugee, Roman, is set to celebrate his GCSE results with pizza and a new computer game after a challenging journey from his home city of Sumy. Roman and his mother, Svitlana, fled to Coventry following a Russian ultimatum to leave their city. Despite only learning English for two years, Roman sat for exams in five subjects at West Coventry Academy, including maths and English, with aspirations of becoming a car mechanic. Svitlana expressed immense pride in her son’s achievements, emphasizing that the results were secondary to his hard work and determination. Roman opened his results live on BBC CWR, revealing his highest grade was a three in maths, equivalent to a D in the previous grading system. He reflected on his performance, stating he had exceeded his own expectations and looked forward to furthering his education at Coventry College in vehicle mechanics. Roman described Coventry as "a great city" and expressed confidence in his future as a mechanic. His mother, visibly emotional, planned to share the news with her parents who remain in Sumy, highlighting the ongoing dangers they face. Svitlana's pride in Roman's accomplishments underscores the resilience and hope that many refugees carry with them as they navigate new beginnings in foreign lands.