‘Future isn’t decided on results day’, insists college principal
A Hertfordshire education leader is reassuring anxious teenagers that there is no single route to success and results on GCSE day will not define their future.
Whether a young person receives exactly the grades they were hoping for on August 20 or their plans change on results day, Gill Worgan CBE, principal and CEO at West Herts College Group, says there are now more opportunities than ever to continue learning and develop new skills.
She said many parents may worry that decisions made on GCSE results day determine a young person’s career path.
She said: “Results day can be an emotional time for families and it’s completely understandable that there can be a lot of anxiety. But one set of results doesn’t define a young person’s future and there are more pathways available than ever before.
“The important thing is finding the route that suits the individual. Everyone is different and there are a range of options that can lead to a bright future – be that at university, in employment or on an apprenticeship.”
Alongside traditional A Level routes, young people can choose from vocational qualifications, T Levels, apprenticeships and specialist technical courses, which combine practical learning with recognised qualifications and clear progression opportunities.
With employers placing growing emphasis on candidates who have the technical skills to hit the ground running, it’s important that academic and vocational qualifications alike are backed up with real-world experience needed for the jobs market.
Gill said: “We're seeing a real shift in how young people think about their futures. University remains the right choice for many, but it is no longer seen as the only route to a successful career.
“Apprenticeships, technical qualifications and vocational courses are opening doors into industries that are in real need of skilled people, allowing learners to build experience from day one while continuing to study.”
West Herts College Group works with employers across Hertfordshire and beyond to develop courses and apprenticeship opportunities that reflect the skills businesses need both now and in the future. Those partnerships help ensure learners gain relevant experience alongside their qualifications, giving them the confidence and skills to progress into employment, higher education or further training.
Gill is also encouraging families not to wait until results day before asking questions.
“Parents and carers play a huge role in helping young people make decisions about their future, but many don’t realise just how many options are available today.
“If plans change on results day, don’t panic. Speak to advisers, explore the alternatives and take the time to understand what each pathway can offer. There is support available and it’s never too late to find the right direction.”
For more information on the options available at West Herts College Group, visit https://www.westherts.ac.uk/