Top tips for making the most of your results

GCSE's - whatever you get, make the most of your results. Credit: Rui Vieira/PA

Thousands of teenagers across the West Country will be nervously collecting their GCSE results today.

It's the moment when many will decide whether to continue with their education or enter into the world of work.

ITV News West Country has put together some helpful advice for students and parents to help make today a little bit easier...

Collecting that envelope can be really nerve-wracking but if you find yourself frowning over some less-than-ideal results, you should find the following advice helpful:

  • What to do if you haven't passed Maths or English:

The first thing to do is to speak immediately to the head of your sixth form or college. It's often the case that colleges offer classes to prepare you for retakes, so before you panic it's best to check that this is an option.

Keep calm and consider all the options opens to you. Credit: Gareth Fuller/PA

  • What if I don't have the grades for my college course:

If you have missed your college requirements, there are a number of different paths you can take. You can retake one or more subjects, or if you think there was a marking error you may apply for a remark. But again the best course of action is to speak to the college you've applied to.

We've spoken to John Carberry, from the UCAS Exam Results Helpline who had some sound advice:

  • You can call the helpline on: 0808 100 8000

  • How do I get a retake or get a paper remarked:

GCSE retakes usually take place in the next available exam season. For most subjects, it will be next summer but for English and Maths it will be November.

Remarks are available for a short time after you have received your results but once you have received a remark grade, it's final.

Retakes are always an option. Credit: David Davies/PA

  • What option should I choose?

Your first step should be to talk to your subject teacher, who will be able to give you the best advice. If you didn't perform as well as you could due to outside circumstances then a retake is likely to be the best option for you. If you found the exam extremely difficult and didn't understand the content very well you may be advised to focus on your other exams rather than retaking or you may be offered a retake.

  • What are the alternatives to further education:

There are a number of different options to explore. You might want to take a vocational course rather than completing A-levels or you may want to get an apprenticeship or seek full-time employment.

There are a number of options that don't necessarily involve GCSE results Credit: Chris Radburn/PA

More information from the exam boards: