GCSE Results Day
Your results, what next?
Your Results: What Next?
Receiving your GCSE results is an important milestone and can bring a mix of emotions.
Whether you've achieved the grades you were hoping for, are considering your next options, or are unsure what to do next, there is support available to help you make informed decisions about your future.
This page provides information on education, apprenticeships, training and careers support available to young people across the Bradford district.
Need Advice? Contact SkillsHouse Bradford
If you're unsure about your next steps, speaking to a qualified careers adviser can help you explore all the options available to you.
SkillsHouse is Bradford Council's free and confidential education, employment and careers support service for young people.
Qualified careers advisers can help you:
- understand your options after GCSEs
- choose the right course or training route
- search for apprenticeships and employment opportunities
- make applications
- develop your CV and interview skills
- create a plan for your future education or career
Call 01274 437373 or visit the SkillsHouse website.
Or, pop down to Darley Street Market on Thursday 20 August between 1pm and 4pm when advisers will be there to chat about training and job opportunities.
Post-16 Education and Training
In England, young people are required to continue in education or training until they are 18.
After GCSEs, you can choose from a range of pathways, including:
- full-time education at school, sixth form or college
- an apprenticeship
- employment or volunteering combined with part-time education or training
Study Full-Time
There are a wide range of qualifications available that can help you progress towards your future career goals.
A Levels and Other Academic Qualifications
A Levels and other academic qualifications, such as the International Baccalaureate (IB), are ideal if:
- you enjoy studying particular subjects
- you want to keep your options open
- you are considering university in the future
Entry requirements vary between schools, sixth forms and colleges, so you should check directly with providers.
Technical and Vocational Qualifications
Technical and vocational qualifications combine classroom learning with practical skills development.
Examples include:
- T Levels
- BTECs
- Cambridge Technicals
- NVQs and other specialist qualifications
These qualifications are designed to prepare you for further study, apprenticeships or employment in a particular industry or sector.
Local providers include:
Each offers a wide range of courses and specialisms.
Didn't Get the Grades You Expected?
Don't panic. There are still lots of opportunities available.
You may wish to:
- discuss your results with your school or college
- review alternative courses with different entry requirements
- explore vocational or technical qualifications
- consider an apprenticeship
- seek advice from SkillsHouse
Many young people successfully achieve their goals by following a different route than they originally planned.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are a popular pathway into employment, training and higher-level qualifications.
They allow you to learn new skills, gain valuable work experience and earn a salary while training.
Apprentices can:
- get a real job while continuing their education and training
- earn a salary while their training costs are covered
- gain hands-on experience and develop skills employers value
- work towards qualifications up to degree level
- choose from opportunities across a wide range of industries and sectors
You can learn more about apprenticeships and search for them on the government website.
Supported Internships
Supported internships are available for young people with learning difficulties or disabilities who want to move into employment and may need additional support.
These programmes combine workplace experience with learning and support to help participants develop the skills needed for employment.
You can learn more about supported internships on the Local Offer website or on the government website.
Employment Opportunities
Some young people choose to move directly into employment while continuing their education or training as required.
SkillsHouse can help you:
- search for jobs
- prepare a CV
- improve interview skills
- identify training opportunities
- explore local employment opportunities
Further Advice and Guidance
Careerpilot gives information and advice on education, training and career options after GCSEs.
National Careers Service has advice and guidance to help you make decisions about learning, training and work, including:
- job profiles
- skills assessments
- CV writing support
- interview preparation
- job search advice
Bradford Council’s Skills for Work service offers employment and skills support for young people facing barriers to education, training or employment. Visit their website or call 01274 433648 for a chat.
Looking After Your Wellbeing
Results day can bring a range of emotions, including excitement, disappointment, uncertainty and stress.
If you're feeling worried or overwhelmed, support is available. You can speak to:
- your family or carers
- teachers or school staff
- SkillsHouse careers advisers
- your GP
- your school nurse
- Childline is always available. Call 0800 1111 or chat with them online.
Remember that your GCSE results are just one part of your journey. There are many different pathways to success, and support is available to help you find the option that is right for you.
