That's a shame, because although it's true that it's ultimately up to the student to cope with classes and studies, the teachers really do play an important part in keeping your head above the water.
If you're convinced you can do well and are motivated to study hard for English Ext to...
Well he sure sounds condescending, whether it was part of his intention or not. I get him trying to prove a point, but doing so in the way he did wasn't really necessary.
Don't know what his problem is.
Are you feeling alright?
I would ask him where he got his information from, and then avoid conversation after he replies, whilst mentally rolling my eyes.
But the reaction would depend on his exact tone of voice. Hopefully it wasn't too confrontational :/