Results Day | What to do if you don't get the results you need
Not achieving the GCSE results required for A-Levels and university can feel devastating, but regardless of the cause, don't let lower grades deter you from pursuing your academic and career aspirations.
Failing to achieve the results you hoped for doesn't mark the end of your academic ambitions. With options like BTECs and T-Levels. exam retakes or apprenticeships, you can still get a university degree. The path might be different, but your goals will remain within reach.
Alternative pathways
The good news is that there are many ways to secure a place at university and Sixth Form colleges beyond traditional GCSE and A-level grades. Even if your grades are disappointing, your learning journey is far from over, and various options can help you achieve your goals.
T-Levels
T-Levels are a new set of qualifications in the UK designed to provide a vocational alternative to A levels. Unlike BTECs, these courses were developed with businesses and offer an industry placement. It is likely that BTECs will be phased out over the next five or so years.
T-Levels are a level 3 qualification and provide an alternative to A levels, apprenticeships, IB, BTEC, and other courses aimed at 16-19-year-olds.
These qualifications were introduced to better prepare students for skilled employment, further study, or higher apprenticeships and include options such as Digital Production, Design and Development, Design, Surveying and Planning for Construction, Education and Childcare, Finance, engineering, and Manufacturing.
BTECs
BTECs (Business and Technology Education Council qualifications) are vocational qualifications that provide practical, hands-on learning in a wide range of subjects. They are designed to help students develop skills and knowledge in specific career areas, preparing them for further education or direct entry into the workforce. BTECs are available at various levels, including:
1. BTEC Level 1 and 2 (Introductory and Firsts): Equivalent to GCSEs, these qualifications offer basic knowledge and skills in a particular subject area.
2. BTEC Level 3 (Nationals): Equivalent to A-Levels, these are more advanced and can lead to university admission or higher apprenticeships.
3. BTEC Level 4-5 (Higher Nationals): Equivalent to the first and second year of a university degree, these qualifications provide in-depth knowledge and skills.
In England, over 2,000 BTEC qualifications are available across 16 sectors, providing extensive options for students and professionals, including animation, computing, and engineering. BTECs are assessed through regular coursework and projects, allowing you to gain practical experience. After completing a Level 3 BTEC, you can progress to university and apply for a degree program.
Apprenticeships
Apprenticeships are ideal if you have a clear career path in mind and are willing to commit to both work and study. In England, to be eligible for an apprenticeship program, you need to be: Aged 16 or over, Living in England and not in full-time education.
Apply here for Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.
Level 2 Intermediate Apprenticeships: These are generally considered equivalent to five GCSE passes. An apprenticeship is a real job, so you'll also need to meet any other criteria set out by the employer. Entry requirements and salary are different depending on the employer and the industry you're going into.
Level 2 apprenticeships are a great first step for those aged 16, offering an alternative to staying in school. After completing an intermediate apprenticeship, you can progress to advanced and higher apprenticeships and, eventually, university. If you don't already have GCSEs in English and maths, you will need to take functional skills as part of the apprenticeship, which is an alternative to GCSEs.
Level 3 Advanced Apprenticeships are generally considered to be the equivalent of 2 A-level passes. You'll spend the majority of your time gaining hands-on experience at your workplace, while the remainder will be dedicated to studying with a college or training provider. This approach allows you to earn money, learn the theory and immediately apply it in your daily activities.
At the end of your apprenticeship (18 - 24 months), you will undergo an assessment to ensure you can confidently perform your role. Upon passing, you will be awarded your apprenticeship.
You can then go on to Level 4 apprenticeships, which are equivalent to the first year of an undergraduate degree, or Level 5 apprenticeships, which are equivalent to a foundation degree or a Higher National Diploma (HND).
You can apply for apprenticeships through UCAS.
Retakes
If you're dissatisfied with your results or require specific grades for A-Levels or university, retaking exams might be a good option.
Several factors can contribute to lower grades, and a tutor can help address these issues. They can assist in enhancing your subject knowledge, revision strategies, and exam techniques.
Firstly, consult with your college or university to see if you can resit exams immediately. If some time has passed or you need to refresh your knowledge, local colleges offer various courses to help you prepare for retakes. Typically, earning your GCSEs from scratch takes about 12 to 24 months.