The options after exam results T

he anticipation of finding out your exam results and getting them can be extremely stressful. It can feel like so much hangs on that day and there’s the potential for great disappointment. You may also feel unsure or worried about what to do next. But, whatever results you get, there are always options open to you. Young people who are disappointed with their exam grades may find it difficult to tell their parents. But talking to someone can really help to give perspective on the situation, provide support and help make decisions. Sometimes it can take a while for parents to come to terms with the news. If this is the case, find another trusted adult such as a teacher or a friend’s parent. Childline is also here 24/7 to listen to any young person worried about their results and needing confidential support and advice. In 2016/17, counsellors at Childline delivered more than 1,000 sessions to young people concerned about this issue. Many told us they felt like failures and that they had let people down by not getting the grades that were expected of them. We encourage young people not to be disheartened and to look at the many options open to them. If you needed certain grades to get onto a course, the first thing to do is to visit UCAS’ Track your application page. You might not have lost your place, especially if your grades were only slightly lower than you expected. If you haven’t got a place, there’s a chance you could get one at a different university through the clearing process. You could also take a gap year – retake your exams, do some work experience, travel or volunteer – and apply for a place for the following year. University isn’t the only option for the future. Some employers offer training programmes or higher apprenticeships for school leavers. It may even be the case that you have received grades that are higher than you anticipated. If this is the situation then it is also important for you to get advice about the options that have become available to you. Young people can get advice from UCAS’ Exam Results Helpline on 0808 100 8000. Children and young people with any worries can contact Childline on 0800 1111 or www.childline.org.uk