Just got your GCSE results, and not sure what to do next?
For some people, passing their GCSEs means making the move into further education. But it’s certainly not the only route you could take after sitting your exams. Especially for anyone looking to earn money right away, or move into an industry which might not need a university degree or higher education qualification to get started.
To help you consider all the options, here are just some of the things you could do after getting your GCSE results.
I got the grades I needed to go to college/sixth form
If you’re looking to move into Year 12, or continue your studies at college, getting the required grades is the ideal scenario.
You can now enjoy a well-deserved summer off, before you return to school. It’s also a good time to consider your next steps. Should you go to university, or do you want to go straight into work after studying (by taking on an apprenticeship, for example).
But first, summer…
Five of the best-paying summer jobs
I didn’t get the grades I wanted
If you didn’t get the results that you were after, there are a few different options on how to proceed.
Appeal – If you think an error was made with your grades you can appeal to have them looked at. This is called ‘requesting a review’, and must be done via your school. You could also ask them to make an appeal to Ofqual. You’ll need to check with the exam board what the deadline is for reviews.
Retakes – If your appeal is unsuccessful, or you want the chance to actually sit your exam, you’ll be able to apply for retakes. These will take place in Autumn for maths and Englis. For all other retakes, you’ll need to take them next year during the normal exam period – and retakes can be managed through your school (although they can also be taken independently for a cost).
A Level and GCSE retakes: Why it’s never too late to resit your exams
I want to continue studying – but not at school
Let’s face it, school isn’t for everyone.
But just because you aren’t a fan of learning in a formal setting, it doesn’t mean you can’t get qualified: with either a regulated, or professional qualification. In fact, there are a lot of courses out there which will allow you to study online, at a time that suits you.
Some great examples of subjects you could study if you finish school at 16 include accounting (with a foundation AAT qualification), hairdressing and beauty therapy, and social care – but there are many more options out there.
However, there are some criteria around whether or not you can leave school, if you only study part-time, which could mean working or volunteering at least 20 hours a week alongside your course.
We recommend visiting gov.uk or talking to your school advisor, to find out more.
GCSE equivalents: What you need to know
I’m thinking about an apprenticeship
Another option for those looking to move out of formal education is to take an apprenticeship.
Most apprenticeships are available to anyone aged 16 and above. And it isn’t just the traditional trades that can provide you with opportunities.
Apprenticeships are available in over 170 different industries and range from roles in Health and Beauty through to Construction and Property, Plumbing to Graphic Design.
Not only are they a great way to get qualified and learn while you earn, they’re also an excellent opportunity to get your foot in the door with an employer and kick-start your career in your chosen field.
Apprenticeships for school leavers
Apprenticeships: How to get started
I want to go straight into work
Aside from applying for an apprenticeship, you could also decide to go into what’s known as a traineeship.
This is essentially a six month work placement, which will set you up for an apprenticeship or full-time working role in the future. Although traineeships are relatively new, they can currently be found on the gov.uk traineeship site.
Other routes into work could include studying part-time, and fitting a job around your schedule, or taking a course which comes with some element of work placement.
Taking a summer job could also be a great option here too, especially if you have a rough idea of what industry you’d like to move into. Although you may not be able to take on the job full-time at this stage, you’ll be able to make valuable contacts for when you do finish school. It also gives you the opportunity to work more during your down time.
All you need to do is write a good school leaver CV, and start applying.
Luckily, we can help with that…
Five of the best-paying jobs you can do after your GCSEs
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