Top Tips For Preparing For GCSE Results Day

Here are some simple, SEN-friendly tips to help make the day run as smoothly as possible, written by Donna Dean, our WG Futures Talent Manager.

Many young people feel more comfortable when they know what to expect. Spend a few minutes talking through the plan for Results Day, including when results will be available, who will be there, how they will receive them, and what will happen afterwards. Having a clear picture of the day can help reduce anxiety and avoid any unexpected surprises.

While we all hope for the results we want, it can be reassuring to discuss different possibilities beforehand. Reassure your young person that, whatever their results, you will work through the next steps together. Knowing there is always another option can take some of the pressure away and help them approach the day with greater confidence.

GCSEs are important, but they do not define a young person's worth or future success. Take time to recognise the hard work, resilience, and determination your young person has shown, as well as the challenges they have overcome and the personal progress they have made. Many young people with SEND work incredibly hard behind the scenes, and those achievements deserve to be celebrated.

Results Day can begin with lots of nervous energy, so creating a calm start to the day can make a real difference. Encouraging your young person to eat breakfast, stay hydrated, allow plenty of time and avoid rushing can help reduce stress and set a positive tone for the rest of the day.

Some young people may feel the need to constantly check social media or compare their results with friends. Remind them that everyone's journey is different and that comparing themselves to others is rarely helpful. If needed, agree on setting aside time away from phones or social media until they have had a chance to process their own results first.

Not every young person will react immediately to their results. Some may be excited, while others may need time to think, even if the results are positive. Allow space for whatever reaction comes naturally, and avoid pressuring them to respond in a particular way. There is no "right" way to feel.

Keeping important phone numbers and email addresses close to hand can make any next steps much less stressful if changes are needed. This might include your school's Futures Lead or Talent Manager, school or college admissions teams, or apprenticeship providers and employers.

Results Day marks the end of a significant chapter. Whether the results are exactly as hoped or not, take time to acknowledge the achievement of completing GCSEs. Celebrate in a way that suits your young person, whether that is enjoying a favourite meal, going on a trip, having a movie night, spending time with family, or simply enjoying a quiet activity at home. Not every celebration needs to be big or noisy to be meaningful.

One set of results does not determine a person's future. There are many pathways available, including college courses, apprenticeships, supported internships, employment with training and, where appropriate, opportunities to resit exams. Sometimes the path may look different from what was originally expected, but that does not make it any less successful.

Results Day can feel like a huge moment, but it is only one step in a much bigger journey. For our young people, having supportive adults around them can make all the difference. Stay calm, keep plans flexible, celebrate effort and remember that every young person develops at their own pace. Whatever the envelope says, there will always be a next step forward. Register for our Day-to-Day Support Pack and discover practical strategies and top tips from SEN experts to help make your mornings smoother, as well as other everyday routines throughout the day.