At South West College we understand that results days can be some of the most nerve-wracking, exciting and challenging days for students as they anxiously consider their next steps. But for parents of students preparing to receive A Level, GCSE or BTEC results, these days can be equally stressful, and they are often left wondering how best to support their son or daughter navigate the complexities of results day.
Reflecting upon the upcoming results days, Padraig McNamee, Director of Curriculum at South West College said:
‘The August results days can bring a range of emotions for all those awaiting examination results and while the focus quite rightly is very much upon the student it is important not to forget the impact these days can have on parents and those who have been guiding and supporting the young people on their educational journeys.’
We have a considerable number of staff who themselves are parents of students awaiting exam results or have gone through the agonizing wait for exam results with their child in recent years and we would offer this advice to parents for the coming days and weeks:
1. Understand the process
Parents should familiarize themselves with the results process, be clear on when the results will be made available and how to interpret the results. Understand what the entry requirements are for your son/daughter’s chosen further/higher education course, apprenticeship or traineeship and identify if there are appeals processes in place if the results are not what are expected. Do your own research into the courses that are of interest to the student.
2. Understand the Options Available
After years in the school system the variety of options and different types of qualification available for Higher Education or Further Education can be daunting. The first and most important thing to know is that there is a pathway suitable for everyone. The key is to spend the time finding the one that suits you or your child best.
In Further Education the choices include both full time and part time study, with Traineeships at level 2 and Level 3 vocational options which are equivalent to 3 A Levels and provide the same progression routes to Higher Education as A Levels.
In Work Based Learning there are employed routes with apprenticeships in a wide range of areas including new areas and new opportunities in All Age Apprenticeships.
In Higher Education the choices are again, full time study at the College on courses accredited by UU, QUB, or OU, or part time. Higher Level Apprentices are an increasingly popular option where the student can take the same Foundation Degree or Degree course while employed in a local firm, earning and learning. For many students, for various reasons, the choice to get their Degree at SWC is the right one for them.
3.Open Communication
Have regular discussions with your son or daughter about their plans and discuss various scenarios. Encourage them to consider multiple alternatives and work through the pros and cons of each suggestion with them. Allow your student to take the lead in the conversations but be willing to guide and support their decision making.
4. Be Positive & Stay Calm
Remind your son or daughter that whatever the results may bring that they will have your full support and that you are proud of their achievements. Provide reassurance that their future is not defined by one set of exam results and that there are many options available to them, some that they might not have previously considered.
5. Talk to our Careers and Student Services Team
At South West College we have a dedicated Student Services team who can provide a range of support and advice and will be happy to provide guidance to all students and their families whatever results day may bring. If you are feeling unprepared for results day or just need some additional guidance reach out and talk to a member of the team. They can talk you through your options and direct you to vocational teams for more detailed and specific information on a particular option or courses.
6. Have a plan
Have a plan for results day, one that has been prepared with the support of your son or daughter. Know what time the results are available, where they can be collected, identify if there are any school/college or employer open day events, and plan a post-results activity, perhaps a family lunch or dinner to celebrate the achievements of the student, but be aware that your son or daughter might require their own space to process their results.
South West College campuses in Dungannon, Omagh and Enniskillen will be open for students receiving A Level and BTEC results and considering progressing to Higher Education on Thursday 15th August while those receiving GCSE results can come and find out more about our range of Further Education, Traineeships and Apprenticeships on Thursday 22nd August. For further information please visit www.swc.ac.uk