A big day – make sure you’re well-prepared
FOR most students, collecting GCSE results today will mark the first time you have ever picked up formal exam results.
It can be a stressful day because a lot hinges on it, so try to be as prepared and as relaxed as you can be.
Your GCSE qualifications will help you progress to A-levels or further study at school, college or elsewhere.
Whether you have the grades you need or not, options are available and help is at hand. What are the most important grades? English language and maths are key qualifications to look out for. Getting at least a C in English and maths GCSEs is often requested as an essential by sixth-form colleges, universities and employers. A grade C or above in these subjects is good news.
If you haven’t passed one or both of them, speak immediately to the head of the sixth form or college you hope to attend.
Many schools and colleges offer classes to prepare you to retake these GCSEs or they will offer alternative courses. Grades A* to C are the benchmark good grades. What if I didn’t get a C? If you’ve missed out on the C grade, especially if it’s by a narrow margin, consider applying for a re-mark or retake. You’re allowed to retake English and maths in November. With other subjects, you’ll have to wait until the following June. You usually have to pay a fee to either retake an exam or to have your paper reviewed, although your centre may choose to pay these fees for you. Speak to your school and your parents/guardians to help you decide. I don’t want to carry on with further education. What are the other options? Alternatives to A-levels include vocational courses such as construction, childcare or engineering. Or you may want to go straight into the world of work and get an apprenticeship or seek employment.
Speak to your school careers advisor and visit www.careerswales.com or call Careers Wales on 0800 028 4844. Lines are open 9am to 6pm Monday to Friday. This is a big day. How can I stay calm and who should I be with? Everyone is different, so decide for yourself where you want to open your results and who you want to share them with.
Having said that, it is best to be somewhere at school to open your results, so you can get advice from your teachers if you need. But you can always take them home to open them if you prefer.
Some people take their envelopes to the toilet cubicle at school to open in private, others want to tear them open in front of friends and teachers. Do what works best for you.
If you’re feeling anxious, exercise can help clear your head. A quick jog or a brisk walk is just as good as a long gym session for helping you calm down and think more clearly.