Results Day 2021

Written on 9th, August 2021

This week marks GCSE & A-level Results Day!

Across the country, GCSE and A-level students will be receiving their results. The COVID-19 pandemic has impacted almost every part of our lives and Results Day 2021 is no exception. Similar to last year, Students’ results will be based on estimated grades given by their teachers instead of final summer exams.

There are plenty of options to explore after completing GCSE’s and A-levels. Here at PTS, we recognise not everyone is suited to academic studies. More and more young people are choosing the route of vocational qualifications, such as apprenticeships and traineeships to process into their desired career.

Over the past year, the government has invested over £1.6 billion to increase apprenticeship opportunities for young people. There are now thousands of schemes available in a variety of sectors, including Health and Social Care, Business Administration, Events and Education and Childcare.

What is an apprenticeship? 

Apprenticeships are designed for 16–24-year-olds. They combine real-life work with academic learning. Apprenticeships are available in a variety of levels. These include Level 2 (equivalent to 5 GCSE passes), Level 3 (equivalent to 2 A-level passes), Level 4/5 (equivalent to a foundation degree) and Level 6/7 (equivalent to a full BA(Hons) Degree).

Students finishing their GCSEs/A-levels will be eligible for both intermediate and advanced level apprenticeships.

Other progression routes:

We understand students finishing their GSCEs/A-levels may be unsure of their next steps. There are multiple schemes out there to help students find their desired careers. These include the Kickstart Scheme and Traineeship work placements.

What is the Kickstart Scheme?

As part of the government’s Plan for Jobs, the £2 billion Kickstart Scheme has created hundreds of thousands of new, fully subsidised jobs for young people across the country. The 6-month work placement is open to those aged 16-24. The Kickstart scheme provides young people with the perfect opportunity to learn on-the-job skills and become more employable for their desired careers.

To find out more on the Kickstart Scheme, visit GOV.UK.

What is a traineeship?

A traineeship is a skills development programme that includes a work placement. Traineeships aim to provide young people aged 19-24 with a variety of experiences, knowledge, practical skills and recognised sector qualifications, along with a crucial work placement. Traineeships are the perfect way to test the waters before looking to complete an apprenticeship.

 Look at our latest apprenticeship and traineeship vacancies!

How to support your child through results day:

Firstly, you’ll need to be able to provide vital emotional and practical support to your child, no matter what happens on Results Day! While it’s important to act quickly in exploring your child’s options, it’s also important not to rush them into deciding, they could end up regretting later. Encourage your child to take some time to digest all the information on their different options and to think about what they really want to do next. Help them by talking through it all and letting them know you’ll be there for them whatever they decide!