A big day for Dorset's A-level students   

Dorset students are being celebrated for their achievements on A-level results day, with a wealth of advice and support available on the Dorset Council website. 

Students receive their A-level, T-levels, BTECs and Level 3 VTQ results on Thursday 15 August, and GCSEs on 25 August. 

Cllr Clare Sutton Dorset Council Portfolio Holder for Children, Education, Skills and Early Help, said: “Congratulations to everyone who received their A-Level results! You should all take great pride in your achievements.  

“For those who may feel uncertain because things didn’t go as planned, please don’t lose heart. There are many paths to further education and fulfilling careers, each with its own opportunities for growth and support.” 

“I’m wishing everyone the very best for your results and for all that lies ahead in your future.” 

Amanda Davis, Corporate Director for Education and Learning at Dorset Council said: "Good luck and a heartfelt thank you to all our young people and the dedicated staff across our schools, colleges, and post-16 institutions for your hard work and determination. 

Whether you’re considering further education, apprenticeships, work, or training, there’s a wealth of support to help you find the right path. 

Remember, your worth is so much more than grades. If things haven’t gone as planned, there’s plenty of support available to help you move forward." 

 

Next steps – advice, support and guidance 

Career and training options 

There are different ways to find out about future options: 

• talk to your school tutor about the different career options 

• visit dorsetcouncil.gov.uk/where-next – read about some of Dorset’s young people who have gone on to have fulfilling careers by choosing a range of different paths 

• find more career information on careerpilot.org.uk 

• find information and support about options at 16 in Dorset from Flying Start 

Advice about apprenticeships can be found online through the Amazing Apprenticeships website. 

The Department for Education has shared some advice from the National Careers Service in this blog post. 

Students can also find out more about all of their education and training choices by visiting the ‘Get the Jump’ Skills for Life content hub on the National Careers Service website. 

Students can also chat directly to an expert adviser via webchat or by calling the National Careers Service exam results helpline: 

0800 100 900 (freephone) 
 

Young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) 

Find information to help young people with SEND decide what route to take in education, training or work – Education, training and work – Dorset Council 

 

Higher education 

Any student who is concerned about their results should speak urgently to their school or college, especially if their further education, university place or employment offer depends on a change to their overall grade. 

Information about higher education and what to do after you get your results is available from UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admissions Service. 

UCAS also offers advice on what to do in different circumstances, depending on results received. 

Read UCAS advice about Clearing. Clearing matches applicants to university places that are yet to be filled. 

 

Advice and emotional support 

Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services (CAHMS) and NHS 111  can assist in providing mental health support. 

Young Minds and Kooth offer support for anyone who feels disappointed with their grades. Students are also advised to speak to their school, as they will be able to provide support and advice on next steps.