In recent weeks young people across London (and throughout the UK) have received their exam results - with widely reported record grades and pass rates. But what next for those who didn't get the results they expected? Here's our advice.
Upon receiving GCSEs, the choice to pick AS and A-levels may hinge on what university course or career a young person has in mind. If this is the case, a visit to The Times Online league table may be useful, as it contains their expert ranking of UK universities. A comprehensive list of all UK universities, including links to their individual sites, is also available online - as too are lists of London Universities and London-based Colleges and Sixth Forms.
If disappointing grades mean that a young person has not met the conditions of an offer for a university place, resits, clearing, and second choice places are the most common options. To find out more about making the right choice, students can call the National Exam helpline on 0808 100 8000, Connexions Direct 080 800 13 2 19, or visit Directgov for advice, or use one of many other online resources for guidance. Some of the best ones are Sky News, BBC News, The Guardian, The Student Room (an online student community with advice and forums) The edge (good for helping young people understand what their options are), 020 London, a site offering specific career advice to those based in London, and Choice, for course information in London.
This year, there are also clearing places available for those who did better than expected, offering opportunities to upgrade to a more prestigious university or change to a course with higher entry requirements.
However, with fewer places available overall and a rise in applications, there won't be room for everyone. Rather than missing out though, they may want to consider an apprenticeship, or an FE college where they can complete an HND or a diploma before reapplying next year. Finally, if young people aren't happy with their results and feel they have been marked incorrectly, their school can contact the Exam Doctor for a re-mark.