GCSE Results Day: Next Steps & Support

GCSE Results Day Overview

✔ Usually the third Thursday in August

Choosing the Right Next Steps

Key Questions to Consider:

1️⃣ Academic or Practical?
2️⃣ Independent Learner or Needs Guidance?
3️⃣ Stay in Education or Enter the Workplace?
4️⃣ Will Choices Support Future Goals?
5️⃣ Do They Reflect Interests & Passions? ❤️
6️⃣ Plans Might Change on Results Day – Stay Flexible!

Parent Advice:
✔ Don’t choose based on friends’ decisions – focus on what’s best for your child.
✔ Every student has an option – there are pathways for all abilities.
✔ Consider a change of environment – staying at the same school isn’t always the best choice.

SEND (Special Educational Needs & Disability) Support

Key Considerations:

✔ Inform new schools/colleges in advance so they can prepare support plans.
✔ Regular assessment & reviews should be in place.
✔ Local councils offer SEND support services – check the Local Offer section on your local authority’s website.
✔ All further education providers must have a named SEND coordinator.

Education, Health & Care Plans (EHCs):

✔ EHC plans continue until age 18 (but not into university).
✔ Personal Budget can cover therapy, transport, and other needs.
✔ If needed, request an EHC assessment from the local authority.

Financial Support for Post-16 Education

1️⃣ Child Benefits & Universal Credit

✔ Stops at 16 unless full-time education continues (up to 19).
✔ Notify relevant authorities to extend payments.

2️⃣ Free School Meals️

✔ Available for students from low-income families in Education & Skills Funding Agency-funded institutes.

3️⃣ Bursaries & Grants

✔ Vulnerable Student Bursary – up to £1,200 per year (for students in care, receiving income support, or disability allowance).
✔ Discretionary Bursary – financial help for students who don’t qualify for the above.
✔ Family Action Trust Grants – funding for course-related expenses (equipment, travel, exam costs, laptops).
✔ Care to Learn Grant – for students under 20 with children; up to £160/week (£175 in London) for childcare.

4️⃣ Residential Support

✔ Residential Bursary Fund – for students who must live away from home to access specialist courses.

Main Points for Parents & Students

✔ Sixteen is a milestone – time to reflect & choose the right path.
✔ If school hasn’t worked well, consider a fresh start – different subjects, learning styles, or environments.
✔ Make informed choices – not based on friends but on future goals.
✔ Parents still play a crucial role – guide & support their decisions while encouraging independence.

Whatever their results, there’s always a next step forward!

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