The day of the results can be an emotional roller coaster filled with nerves, excitement, disappointment, and uncertainty. As parents help their children navigate one of life’s milestones, it’s normal for them to feel powerless. You can assist in a variety of ways. Let us show you how to help your child on results day in nine easy ways.
1. Relax and be available
It can be difficult to not know. Your child is probably nervous and even a little overwhelmed, whether they show it or not. Even if you don’t feel calm, you can inspire confidence in them. It is also beneficial to be present without over-interrogating the situation. Show them that, no matter what, there is always a way forward.
2. Give them control
Some kids will want you there, while others will prefer to go alone. While others will open the envelope quietly, some will want to make a big deal of what’s inside. Allow them to choose how they want to gather the results and share the news.
3. Prepare your response
Easy news is good news. Give them a hug, smile, and celebrate. Do what makes them feel like they are special. Not easy news, difficult news. Surprise and anxiety can show up on our faces without our knowing it. The best thing to do is to practice pragmatism with calmness; it really isn’t that bad.
4. Do not compare
The individuality of each child’s journey is what makes them wonderful. Talk about what they have accomplished; refrain from discussing other people’s results—especially on results day and afterward.
5. If outcomes are better than anticipated…
Your child did well. They were even surprised by themselves, and they now have new options to look into. They can apply for a variety of courses and choose a more challenging path. Encourage them to speak with the school’s career advisor to learn more about their options if they did well in their GCSEs. They can get in touch with UCAS and go through Clearing or Adjustment if they did well at A-level. The UCAS assistance number is 0371 468 0 468. The National Careers Service can also be reached at 0800 100 900.
6. If GCSE results fall short of expectations…
Don’t be afraid. You can offer suggestions to your child. If they believe there was an error, they can first appeal the grades. Second, if you choose, some apprenticeships and post-16 courses let you start the course of your choice while retaking important GCSEs. Therefore, you should get in touch with the school or college to talk about all of your options. Alternately, they can get precise guidance on what to do next from the National Careers Service at 0800 100 900. Third, retakes, an additional year, and getting back on track Some people take longer, which is fine. As the world continues to change, the majority of people will have nine careers in their lifetime. It doesn’t matter how long it is.
7. If results fall short of expectations
A-levels If you are an A-Level student who has not received an offer, it is time to get in touch with UCAS if you want to attend university. The Clearing procedure is simpler than you might think. On A-level results day, like millions of others, your child only needs to pick up the phone. You could also talk about the variety of opportunities for higher education, such as apprenticeships. There are currently hundreds of high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for a variety of positions. While receiving training at a university or college, apprentices earn money while gaining valuable work experience. Learn more about it here.
8. Investigate all career and educational paths
Regardless of your child’s results, you should talk about the many options for higher education, including apprenticeships. There are currently hundreds of high-quality apprenticeship opportunities for a variety of positions. While receiving training at a university or college, apprentices earn money while gaining valuable work experience. Learn more about it here.
9. Pay close attention
The same conclusion emerges from all of our work with parents: they are determined to do what is best for their children. Most likely, you’ll want to fix them. You might want to exercise authority. Listen to your child and figure out what they want to do next. Then assist them in finding their way. Let your child know that it’s alright for them to be upset. This is only one chapter in the story of emotions, which are natural. One last thought: Your belief in them is more important than any grade ever could be, no matter what happens today.