By KLTV Newsdesk –

As thousands of pupils across the country receive their GCSE results on Thursday 21st August, celebrations will be plentiful.

But for some, the day brings unexpected disappointment, confusion, and uncertainty about the future.

For parents, this can mean stepping in to provide guidance, reassurance, and practical support.

Dr Richard Anderson, Head of Learning and Development at online training provider High Speed Training, has shared expert advice for helping children navigate results day if things haven’t gone to plan.

Celebrate Achievements

Dr Anderson said: “Whatever results students are faced with, remembering that each individual has experienced their own, personal journey to get there is vital.

“Remind them of the obstacles they’ve overcome to get to this point – it’s a credit to their work ethic in such challenging times.

“For students who haven’t done as well as expected, they’re going to be feeling a whole mixture of emotions, including disappointment and panic.

“It’s important to remind them that they did their best, which is only something to be proud of – these results won’t be the sole determinant of their future success.

“Avoid asking questions like ‘why didn’t you revise harder?’ or focusing on subjects they underperformed in.

“If they’re already disappointed in their performance, these questions will only serve to undermine their self-confidence and make them feel worse.”

Consider Re-marking Exams

Dr Anderson explained that the first step for students who narrowly missed a pass in core subjects may be to request a review of marking.

“Students are required to get a minimum of a 4 in maths and either English literature or language to avoid having to retake them at A level.

“So the first step for students who have scored a 3 in these subjects is to ask for a re-mark. It’s not a certainty that re-marking their paper will increase their grade, but it’s definitely a step that’s worth taking.

“There is a charge for getting the exams re-marked, but in many cases this is something that the school will cover.

“It should also be said that if the grade is less than a 3, there’s very little chance of it increasing to a 4, so in this case it’s not worth asking for a re-mark.”

Speak to Colleges and Sixth Forms

Contacting a student’s chosen college or sixth form should be a top priority after receiving disappointing results.

Dr Anderson said: “Many colleges will do what they can to accept your child, even if they underperformed in their GCSEs, so it’s vital that you speak to them about what options your child has.

“It’s possible that they will offer your child a place on their chosen course, with conditions relating to performance or retaking key GCSEs. They may also offer them a place on a similar course.

“If the college will not accept your child due to their results, then it’s time to consider other options.”

Keep Career Goals in Mind

Dr Anderson stressed the importance of keeping long-term aspirations in perspective.

“Many students will be under the impression that not receiving their desired results means they can’t pursue the career path they had in mind – it’s important to reassess and rationalise these thoughts.

“It’s possible that your child can still get into their chosen career path by going straight into employment, or by taking qualifications that aren’t A-levels, so it’s important that you evaluate whether college is a necessity or a bonus when it comes to entering their career of choice.

“There isn’t one linear process that every student needs to follow. By reminding yourself and your child of this, you open up a much wider variety of possibilities for them to explore.”

Take Time and Seek Support

Above all, Dr Anderson advises against rushing decisions in the immediate aftermath of results day.

“In the unfortunate case that your child doesn’t receive the results they need, take time to let feelings and emotions die down so that you’re both able to see the bigger picture.

“There’s no immediate rush to make a decision, regardless of the outcome you’ve been faced with.

“Your child’s educational support system will already provide a network of people available to consult with on what the next step should be – these people are trained and knowledgeable in this specific field, so it’s really important to utilise them.

“Trained careers advisors can also help your child by providing a personalised plan of action based on the career path they have in mind.”

For more information on High Speed Training and their education resources, visit: www.highspeedtraining.co.uk/courses/education