Thursday 24^th August 2023 is a big day. It’s the day when thousands of students across the UK receive their GCSE results. It’s a day filled with both excitement and anxiety, and as a teacher, you play a crucial role in helping your students navigate this emotional rollercoaster.

While some students will achieve the results they hoped for, others may be disappointed and in need of support. In this guide, we’ll explore how you can offer the right kind of support, praise and practical help to make a real difference to your students after receiving their GCSE results.

Be available and listen

One of the most important things you can do for your students is to be available and listen. Let them know you are there to help them navigate any concerns or worries they might have. This can go a long way in easing their anxiety and making them feel supported.

By doing this, you’ll give them the opportunity to share their results with you, ask any questions they may have, and seek advice on next steps. Try to convey a sense of positivity, even if your students’ results may not have been what they were hoping for. Remind them that there are always other options and pathways available. This can go a long way in easing their anxiety and making them feel supported.

Offer support and guidance

Your students might feel overwhelmed by the news of their GCSE results. For those that do achieve their desired grades, it's important to offer genuine praise and to acknowledge the hard work and effort that has gone into achieving this success. For students that aren't quite sure what direction to take next, it’s important to offer practical help. As a teacher, you can offer guidance on options like vocational courses, apprenticeships, or retakes. It’s also important to remind students that these results are just a stepping stone in their academic career and that there are always opportunities to improve or take a different path.

Help them create a plan

If your students are feeling lost or unsure about what to do next, help them create a plan. This can include looking at their options for further education or employment, or helping them set specific goals related to their interests and passions. This can give them a sense of direction and purpose, and help them feel more in control.

Provide support and resources

Offering your students support and access to resources can make a big difference in their success. This could include tutoring or mentoring, or even connecting them with other students who are going through a similar situation. You can also provide them with information about college or career fairs, internships, or other opportunities that may be of interest.

Make sure you are prepared beforehand so that you can offer the right support and advice. Researching online, speaking to experienced colleagues and getting advice from the careers department for different situations will give you the confidence when reassuring students.

Stay positive

Above all, stay positive. A positive attitude goes a long way when it comes to helping students whose results are not what they expected. Talk to your students about their strengths and talents and remind them of the progress they have made. Help them see their results as a stepping stone, rather than a roadblock, and encourage them to keep striving for their goals.

If you maintain an optimistic and constructive approach, you can empower students to try again or aim for alternative paths that suit their skills. With your help, students can remain focused and keep their eyes on the prize despite initial setbacks.

Receiving GCSE results can be a challenging time for students, but as a teacher, you can play a vital role in helping them navigate this period and move forward with confidence. By following these tips, you can help your students receive the support, encouragement, and practical help they need on GCSE results day. In return, this can help boost their confidence and self-esteem and make them feel more positive about their future.

Remember that these results are just a snapshot of their academic journey and it’s important to provide your students with the assurance that there are always alternative pathways and options available. Regardless of the final grades, the most important thing is to ensure that students feel supported, valued, and celebrated for their accomplishments.