GCSE Results Day - How to support young people when their future changes
As GCSE results day approaches we know what to expect in the press. Images of joyful young people, smiling and sometimes crying as the hard work from the past few years pays off. As close friends embrace they will be interviewed about their plans for what they will do next, while the annual debate over whether exams are easier now rumbles in the background.
GCSE Results Day Stress - a pivotal moment?
There are a lot of big feelings, even when things go well, but the cameras usually politely turn away from the faces of those who didn’t get their grades. Those who may be openly emotional or perhaps just quietly slip away from the crowds, so as not to explain their disappointment.
By the time we’re in our late twenties we know all too well that this life moment is not as pivotal as it seems. Or rather, it is, but the grades achieved don’t have to be the pivot. It is how the grades are dealt with which matters and the next steps we choose to take. But for now it is the centre of our world.
Results Day Support - What to do if the expected future changes?
When we pick our GCSE subjects we are being asked to choose our future at an age where most of us change our favourite food each week! With subjects chosen we become fixed on a path, dictated by an assumption of results. This can create a lot of pressure on a developing mind.
If you’ve got a young person in your life who is coming up to results day here are 5 top tips to help you support them if their future changes:
- Have a back-up plan ready and have conversations about it
It’s important the young person knows they will be supported whatever the outcome. If you, as a parent or carer, have set your own expectations you might need to be ready to adjust too.
Sit down and talk about what a back-up plan would look like. Remember, support isn’t always about offering advice and solutions, it’s often better to listen and allow others to come up with ideas which they feel are right for them. - Remind them perspective is important
Remind the young person they are not defined as a person, by their results.
- Be there on the day.
Young people will often want to collect their results alone or with friends but ensuring a parent or carer is on hand to talk things through is important.
Your reaction will influence how the young person feels. Avoid recriminations or sharing disappointment, instead offer comfort and encourage a positive outlook.
They may not want to talk about it straight away but make them aware you will be there when they are ready. - Tap into support for students from their school
Schools often put on extra support staff to help students on the day, as well as longer term support. Make sure you know what’s on offer and how support can be accessed.
The school will be able to advise on options for resits, different paths in education, apprenticeships and maybe more. Reassure the young person that we all learn differently and classroom learning isn’t the only path.
The National Careers Service also has trained careers advisors who can be contacted by telephone or web chat. - Seek professional help
You’ll notice the theme on all of these tips is to keep talking. Whether you want to talk to us about how you can better support the young person in your life, or you would like them to speak to one of our trained therapists directly, we’re here to help you.
Get in touch with the friendly team at Fortis Therapy & Training today.
