Cryptic crossword clue
Excellent learner removed from joint popular with Goths originally 8

The most common and most likely answer to this crossword clue is the 8 letter word SPIFFING

I've seen this crossword clue in Independent
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P
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Buddy explains!

The straight part
We know that "Excellent" is the straight/definition part of the clue. The straight part is often a synonym or definition, in this case excellent = spiffing.
The cryptic/wordplay part
In cryptic crossword there's often an wordplay/cryptic part as well.
This part involves a more complex hint, such as an anagram, homophone, hidden word, etc.
Sadly, We don't have an explanation for this specific crossword clue yet.

What does SPIFFING mean?

SPIFFING verb
  1. (usually with up or out) To make spiffy (attractive, polished, or up-to-date)
  2. To reward (a salesperson) with a spiff or bonus.
  3. To attach a spiff or bonus to the selling of (a product)
  4. To throw; to heave.
SPIFFING adjective
  1. Very good, excellent.
  2. Smart or appealing in dress or appearance.

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