Thursday, 25th August 2022 will see countless students receiving their GCSE results in the UK. It’s often a roller coaster of an emotional day, with some individuals experiencing massive highs, and some feeling disappointed by their results. Here at Tutorspot we’ve helped countless students, of all ages, prepare for their GCSEs, whether that be first sittings or retakes. So, we know a thing or two about results day. Here’s our top advice on how to get through the day, and whatever comes next.
In much the same way that many people experience severe nerves or anxiety about exams, the same can be true of exam results. Knowing that your next steps hinge on whatever that piece of paper says, can be somewhat overwhelming. However, it’s important to remember that no matter what the results, there is nothing you can do to change them in this moment. They already are what they are – all you need to do is pull that figurative plaster off, and find out where you stand.
If you’re feeling particularly anxious, it might be worth considering getting your results as soon as they are available, rather than waiting around worrying about them all day. However, do make sure you have a sensible breakfast before you leave. Yes, we know we sound like your Gran right now, but the reality is, nerves and stress on top of an empty stomach do not make for a healthy day.
One of our online Biology tutors, who is an expert on nutrition and the effects of diet and stress on our health, even suggests taking some snacks with you – you never know how long you’re going to be at school, catching up with friends, speaking to teachers and working out what your next steps are. You don’t want to feel the hungry on top of everything else!
Unfortunately, receiving lower than anticipated grades can happen to anyone. Yes, it is hugely disappointing; however, it is not as catastrophic as you may initially think it is. There are still lots of options available to you, so there is never any reason to panic.
Whilst many Sixth Forms and Colleges have a minimum entry requirement when it comes to GCSE results, they may also have a degree of flexibility. It’s important not to simply assume your lower grades aren’t good enough to make the cut – pick up the phone and speak to them. See if they are still able to offer you a place. Once you know their decision, one way or the other, you will be able to plan your next steps.
If your grades are not acceptable to your chosen place of study, then it’s time to have a chat with your tutor. They may look at your results and suggest it’s worth you appealing and having your paper(s) re-marked. There is no guarantee that your mark will change, but it may be a viable option in your specific circumstances.
Alternatively, you might find yourself looking at other educational establishments, and seeing if they are able to accept you onto your chosen courses with the grades that you have. You will need to put some leg work in to make sure you are a right fit, but your teachers will no doubt be able to offer you advice and support with this.
Depending on which subjects you’re unhappy with the results for, you may be able to retake them as soon as November this year. Deciding to resit your GCSEs is a personal decision, which you should make after considering all your options and what your ultimate goals are.
Even if you have still been able to get into the college you wanted to based on the results you’ve received you may still want to consider restudying your GCSEs. Working with a personal online tutor can help you better solidify your learning in your chosen subject. Whilst this is not the same as resitting (you will not actually retake your GCSE this way, merely revise and improve your understanding), tutoring online undoubtedly has huge benefits.
Taking the time to cement the foundational knowledge from GCSE will serve you well for taking these subjects at A Level. If you are taking Science or Maths subjects at A level, then when the time is right, your online maths tutor, physics tutor, chemistry tutor or biology tutor will be able to move through the content to support you with your A Level studies. This is the bonus of working with an online tutor; they are there to help you achieve your own specified goals and work at your pace.
The reality is, even if you get the results you wanted, hoped for or needed at GCSE a personal tutor will still be able to support you in the next stages of your education.
Transitioning from GCSE level study to A Level study requires a significant amount of endurance and dedication. Whilst you will be studying fewer subjects, the depth of content will be suitably increased, meaning the amount of additional reading and knowledge you will need to demonstrate will also increase.
For science, for instance, an online science tutor is best placed to work with you and advise on what topics you should spend time studying. They can help identify areas that need improvement, whether that be your analytical skills, writing skills or practical skills. They know what exam boards, and those assessing coursework will be looking for, and can help you prepare for these situations right from the beginning. The same is true for maths – a maths tutor or further maths tutor will be able to help you prepare for studying A level maths and/or further maths.
Knowing that you are getting the support from the start of your studies will help ensure that you remain on track – at no point will you be falling behind because you don’t quite grasp what has been explained in class.
To find out more about how the tutors at Tutorspot can help you, simply use our easy to use search tool. This will allow you to find personal tutors by subject, as well as educational level.
