GCSE students across Wiltshire are receiving their exam results

GCSEs are currently ranked on a 9-1 scale, where 9 is the top grade and grade 4 is a standard pass, roughly in line with the former Grade C. VTQs are practical qualifications for over 16s, designed to help students to get the required skills to start a career or enter higher education.

Cllr Laura Mayes, Cabinet Member for Education and Skills said: “Today is an exciting day and I send my congratulations to everyone who is due to find out their GCSE or VTQ results and wish you good luck with your next steps.

“I also want to thank those who have provided support to students and helped them to achieve these results, whether that’s teachers, school staff or parents and carers.

“If you are a student who maybe didn’t get the grades you were expecting or you are unhappy with your results, you should speak to your school or teachers and use the available support around you to decide the best options available.”

Students who do not receive the grades they anticipated should initially speak to their school or college, which can offer help and advice about options available to them, including the appeals process.

There is a dedicated results day page on the Work Wiltshire website at https://workwiltshire.co.uk/results-day/ with details of the support and advice available.

Anyone aged 16-17, who is finding it hard to stay in education or to find a place for September can speak to Work Wiltshire and register for support with Education, Employment Advisers. Support is available online at Support - Work Wiltshire , by emailing workwilts@wiltshire.gov.uk or by calling 01225 716890.

For those thinking about starting an apprenticeship rather than continuing in education, information and registration details can be found https://workwiltshire.co.uk/home/apprenticeships/.

The Building Bridges programme can also help those who did not get the results they wanted. The free programme (funded by the European Social Fund and Lottery Community Fund) offers 1:1 support from a friendly development worker to help students decide on the next steps in getting employment, education, or training.

People who are worried about receiving their exam results or require support following their results can contact the Wiltshire SHOUT service. This is a free, anonymous 24/7 mental health text messaging service which will not appear on your bill. Text WILTS to 85258 to be connected with a trained volunteer who will aim to support you to a calm and safe place.

Help and support is also available from the National Careers Service, who can be contacted via social media, webchat or by phone. You can contact the helpline on 0800 100 900 from 8 am to 8 pm Monday to Friday and 10 am to 5 pm on Saturday.