With GCSE Results Day just a few days away, the long wait for your results is nearly over and you can start looking ahead to what comes next. For some students, the next step will be relatively straightforward, with the results they were hoping for confirming their plans for September.
For others, Results Day may bring a change of plan, whether that’s because your results are different from what you expected or you’ve simply had second thoughts about what you want to do next. Whatever your situation, it’s worth taking some time to understand your options and make a decision that’s right for you.
Take stock of your results and your plans
Once you have your results, check them against the entry requirements for the course or subjects you’ve chosen. If everything has gone to plan, you can move on to enrolment and start getting ready for September.
If one or more of your grades are lower than you hoped, it doesn’t necessarily mean your plans are over. Depending on your results and what you want to study, there may be different options available, from reconsidering a subject choice to exploring an alternative course or another route towards the same longer-term goal.
Getting advice can help you understand what’s possible and make the right decision for you.
Equally, if you’ve done better than expected, you may find that other options are now open to you. That doesn’t mean you need to change your plans, but Results Day can be a good opportunity to consider whether you’re still happy with the choices you’ve made.
If your plans have changed
Your application may have been submitted many months ago and since then, you’ve finished school, sat your exams and had the summer to think about what comes next.
Perhaps you’re no longer sure about one of your subjects, you’ve started thinking about a different career or you’ve decided you’re ready for a different environment and experience in September. It’s perfectly reasonable to revisit the choices you made earlier in Year 11.
Think about the subjects you enjoy, how you like to learn and the type of environment you want to be in. You certainly don’t need to have your entire future mapped out at 16, but it’s worth making sure your next step still feels right for you.
Make the most of enrolment
Enrolment is more than an administrative process; it’s also an opportunity to make sure the programme you’re starting is right for you.
Have your results to hand, ask questions and be open if you’re unsure about something. If you’re reconsidering a subject or your results have affected your original choices, this is a good opportunity to talk things through.
At Brockenhurst College, our team will be on hand during enrolment to provide advice and guidance, helping you understand the options available and confirm the right programme for you.
Still unsure about September?
Not everyone reaches Results Day with a confirmed plan. You may not have applied anywhere yet, or you might have decided that the choice you made earlier in the year is no longer right for you.
There can still be opportunities available after Results Day, so don’t assume you’ve left it too late.
If you haven’t applied to Brockenhurst College but are considering joining us this September, come along to our Sixth Form Late Applicant Information Evening on GCSE Results Day, Thursday 20 August, from 5:00pm to 8:00pm.
You’ll be able to explore the campus, get advice about your options and receive support with completing a late application. Places on individual courses are subject to availability.
Find out more and register for our Sixth Form Late Applicant Information Evening.
