Ucas advisers have told students preparing to receive their GCSE results on Thursday to stay calm and phone their helpline if their results are not what they expect.
"Disappointing exam results are a setback but not a disaster," Nick Hynes, an exam results helpline adviser says. "Last year, I spoke in-depth with a 16 year old student. Her year 11 had not gone to plan. She failed her GCSEs and both she and her family were distressed. Luckily, she thought to call [us].
"By reflecting on her underlying strengths and her longer term career goals, we managed to find a bridging course at a local college. I supported her to contact the college, highlighting why she would be a good candidate for the course. She got in and started two weeks later."
Hynes highlights the importance of having the ability to identify alternative ways of planning the future: "It’s imperative that students have access to expert and impartial advice after unexpected results if they need it."
Each helpline adviser is fully trained in offering career advice, and can provide information on:
- Higher and further education choices (university and college options)
- Confirmation, Clearing and Adjustment
- Skills, qualifications and subject choices
- Vocational learning routes
- Re-sits and re-marks
- Gap years
- Careers and employment
- Funding
The Exam Results Helpline can be reached on 0808 100 8000. Calls are free from landlines. Mobile network charges vary.