How to cope with the test of failing an exam

TEENAGERS all over the country will be finding out their GCSE results today.

For those who achieved their desired grades, it’s a time of celebration.

However, this year, it’s likely that a higher proportion of students will face disappointment due to the tough new GCSEs.

About half a million teenagers sat the reformed exams this summer and will receive results graded from nine to one rather than A* to G. Cambridge Assessment, one of the biggest exam boards, predicted that as few as 200 star pupils will achieve a clean sweep of top grades.

For parents it’s important to remember that no matter your child’s grades, there are options.

Stephen Moore, director of Justin Craig Education, recommends families have a discussion with teachers on results day regarding the grades and if it’s worth getting papers remarked.

He says: ‘For maths and English, resitting is compulsory for students failing to achieve a pass (grade 4) if they are under 18 and/or studying full time.

‘For other subjects, results may affect A-level choices. If a child has narrowly Advice: Stephen Moore missed the grades, it’s worth speaking to their preferred college. They could suggest a different course or college.

Stephen urges parents to help teenagers research different options.

‘If they have a specific career in mind, now is the time to research the ways it can be achieved. While retakes may be required, there will be other routes — apprenticeships or work experience, for example.’

For students considering retakes, it’s important to make a study programme.

Stephen says: ‘This might entail requesting papers back from the exam board to identify where marks were lost, discussing revision with teachers or getting specialist support from private tutors.’

Justin Craig Education justincraig.ac.uk