Finally, the GCSE and A-level seasons are coming to an end, and it's time for pupils (and parents) to sit down and breathe a sigh of relief. With the end, however, comes the agonizing wait for results. If you or your child are feeling anxious before results day and what will happen next, here's how to calm yourself down.
Take a deep breath
Feeling anxious about results day is normal, and it's a good sign that you care about your exams and your future. However, if you are concerned about exam performance, it is important to put it into perspective. It is a waste of time to keep rethinking what you have done and what you have not done. So take a deep breath and focus on the present and the future. What helps is to channel those nerves into activities that give you a sense of control over your life. Maybe stick to an exercise regimen, get a summer job, or even plan a trip with friends. At the very least, make sure you have a routine; otherwise it's easy to stay up all night and sleep all day.
Stay tuned for what happens next
Knowing what happens next is another way to gain a sense of control and be less anxious. A level results day is Thursday, August 18, 2022.GCSE results day is Thursday 25 August 2022.For students in Scotland, results day is Tuesday 9 August 2022. All students should receive their results by 10:00 (contact their school for more details).
Know your post result options
For A-levels, results day can be stressful, so make sure you know what's going on and what you need to do. First, prepare your UCAS application credentials so you can determine if you have a place at your chosen university or if you need to go through UCAS clearing. Be present on results day as UCAS and the universities can only talk to you about the details of your application (unless you have already given someone access, contact UCAS to find out how to do this. You can also receive GCSE results by email or at your school. If you are satisfied with the grade and intend to continue your education, you will need to obtain a secondary school diploma or an equivalent qualification. You can do this at your school, Sixth Form College, or a higher education institution. Students who are dissatisfied with their grades and who have not been successful in their profession or have chosen not to appeal, will have the opportunity to take an exam in the next summer series in 2023. Language and Mathematics will again be available to take the series of exams in November 2022. As usual, all students can appeal against their grades.
Speak with someone
If you are upset, anxious, or worried about your future, talking to someone you trust about how you feel can help you. Talk to a teacher or tutor you trust if you don't want to confide in your parents for fear of letting them down. Talking about your concerns can help you see things differently. Teachers and mentors can give you proven ideas on how to cope or reassure you that things aren't as depressing as you might think. And when you talk to someone, you don't have to do it alone, which makes grievances more manageable. Childline is here to help anyone under 19; Call 0800 1111.
Family Lives offers a confidential and free* helpline on 0808 800 2222 for emotional support, information, advice and guidance.