If your teenager gets unexpected exam results, don't panic!

A level results:

The Directgov website has comprehensive information on what to do if teenagers get unexpected A level results.

GCSE results:

Young people who have not got the grades they needed to get onto a course should contact the college, which may offer them a place on a similar course at a different level, or would possibly allow them to retake one or two GCSEs alongside studying for the new course.

Other options are:

• Applying for an apprenticeship for September; young people who want information on how to find an employer can get help from Connexions
• Going straight into employment - Connexions has a database of jobs that are available right now
• Entry2Employment (E2E) is for those who don’t want to study full-time but are not yet ready to go into the working environment. It is a programme developed around the individual to develop their motivation and confidence
• Temporary voluntary work can give young people more time to think about the future, help them to gain confidence and independence and also let them give something back to the community as well as looking great on a CV

Pleasantly surprised?

It’s not too late for young people to put great results to good use. There is a range of general, vocational and occupational courses that young people can apply for, even after the GCSE results, and some can be started at varying levels.

For information on where personal advisers will be over the exam results period, see the link below
Connexions Information