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Worried about Exam Results? You need a Plan B!

Having a Plan B is essential, you can set yourself up for success.
/Career Resources/GCSE Result Day Toolkit/Worried about Exam Results? You need a Plan B!

Here’s why it’s important to have a plan B!

You might feel as though you do not need a plan B, as your career feels far so in the future, but you never know what is around the corner! In these uncertain times, Inspira can help guide you through your options, before, during and after Results Day.

When plan A seems to be going nowhere fast, it can be frustrating and knock your confidence for any number of reasons. When people suggest creating plan B it can sometimes feel like they're doubting your abilities, but they might be offering you a helping hand. There can sometimes be a stigma around having a concrete plan B.

However, by knowing what your options are (no matter the outcome on results day) you can set yourself up for success.

Related Resources

Preparation

Preparing for results day is recommended. Becoming aware of your options and solidifying your plan B could even work out better than your original plan!

It’s also a good idea to find out from your school or college what time you can pick up your results and where you can pick them up from.

Early Action!

Most secondary schools, colleges, sixth forms and sixth form colleges will be open on results day, either in person or by phone. Use this to your advantage, if you haven’t got the grades you expected, you can visit or call the course leaders and speak to them directly. They may offer you the choice to join a lower-level course and work your way back up. Having flexibility and a willingness to compromise could help you get back on track before you know it.

What if I don't pass Maths and English?

Firstly, do not panic! Your first port of call should be speaking to your Maths and English teachers as soon as possible. You should also speak to the college, sixth form, sixth-form college, apprenticeship, or training provider you have applied to - they may be flexible on the grades they’ll accept.

  • There will be an opportunity to re-sit Maths and English if you feel the teacher assessed grade doesn’t reflect your work. The re-sit will take place in the Autumn or Summer term. Additionally, you can enrol to re-sit Maths and English with a local school or College.
  • Appealing your grades is one option. Unlike past years there will be no charge for the appeals process but it’s important to keep in mind Ofqual has confirmed that this year's grades can be moved down as a result of an appeal.
  • Another option is applying to a more practical and vocational course at a college that is offered to students no matter what grades you start with. But remember, you will also have to resist your Maths and English.

Check out our blog on The Importance of Maths and English for more info!

As we get closer to summer, it’s an ideal time to reassess what you want to achieve and expand your options.

Having a Plan B is essential and can help you reach your goals sooner. Get in touch with our expert Career Advisers, here at Inspira, for FREE 1:1 support building your Plan B for results day.