GCSE results day - congratulations to students

The Isle of Wight Council would like to extend its congratulations to Island students who are collecting their GCSE results day today.  

Today is the start of the next stage in young people’s lives as they move on to new challenges. Many are choosing to continue to study at sixth form or college while others are learning through apprenticeships or other work-based learning opportunities.

The Isle of Wight Council expects to have the full picture of GCSE and other level 2 qualification results early in the new year, when the validated data set is released by the Department for Education.

Exams are graded on a number scale which runs from nine (highest) to one (lowest). This means a grade 4 is a 'standard pass' with a grade 5 or above a 'good pass'. The bottom of a grade 7 is comparable with the bottom of an old grade A.

Councillor Paul Brading, Chair of the Children's Services, Education and Skills Committee said "I would like to extend my congratulations to every young person who has collected their GCSE exam results today. If your results are not what you expected, there is lots of help out there to help you take the next steps towards your future learning. It’s also a great time to recognise and say thank you to the teachers, leaders and schools for the hard work and support they provide to students.’’

Naomi Carter, Service Director Education, Inclusion and Access added "I would also like to say a huge well-done to all of those collecting their GCSE results today. GCSEs are a significant milestone in the lives of children and young people, but it is important to remember that whatever the results, there are plenty of options available to help achieve a bright future.

Today marks years of hard work for students and teachers alike. I wish all students every success, as they move on to further education, employment or training!’’

Exploring your next steps

Whether your results were what you expected or not, there are plenty of options and support available to help you take your next step with confidence.

Island Futures offers extra support for young people on the Isle of Wight moving from Year 11 into college, training, or work -or the next stage of their career pathway. Visit their website to explore your options: Island Futures website

Drop-in sessions are available for anyone who has recently left school and doesn’t yet have plans for September. These are also open to young people who are currently not in education, employment, or training.

There are also numerous supportive career advice websites available online.

Students who may be feeling uncertain, anxious or stressed about the future as they move on to college, employment or training can seek support to help them look after their mental health and recognise when to ask for help.

Support is available from Young Minds, who offer resources and guidance tailored to young people’s mental health needs.

You can also find a range of mental health support resources at: 

• Mental health: Healthier Together (what0-18.nhs.uk)

Support available for education staff

If you're working in education and need someone to talk to, you're not alone—support is available to help you take care of your wellbeing.

Education Support is a UK charity providing support for education sector staff. 

• Education Support
  

They also provide immediate, confidential emotional support through their telephone helpline on 08000 562 561.

Support available for parents and carers

If you're a parent or carer looking for ways to support your child, check out the helpful websites listed below for advice and information.