Results Day and What to Expect- Part 1

Covid-19 has had the biggest impact on schooling with GCSE and A level exams being cancelled, leaving everything very much up in the air, especially concerning grades. Because of this, results day is one of the scariest days for Y11 and Y13 students and nobody really knows what to expect, from the way that schools are going to open for results day to options if you don’t get the grades you had hoped. In the next few blog posts, we will discuss all of this and hopefully alleviate some of your worries. 

How are grades being calculated? 

This is explained in more detail in a previous blog post, but we’ll briefly recap. Your grades will be calculated by your teachers by looking at all of your work done during the GCSE or A-level course. There are many speculations about the fairness of the system, and whether teacher’s personal opinions will affect your grade, but Ofqual have done everything possible to ensure that your grade will be the fairest possible. Even after your teachers have submitted their grades, it goes to the exam boards for one last check to ensure it is as accurate as possible. Very recently, it has been announced that if you are unhappy with your exam grade you can use your mock grade to apply for further studies, and that A-level grades will not be lower than your mock grades. Because this situation is moving so fast, I will update this blog as new information comes out. 

How will my school run results day?

Every school will do this differently based on their resources available, but all schools must do it in a safe, socially distanced way. Some schools will have stalls outside where students can receive their grades in a letter whilst still distancing, whereas some have taken a more virtual approach either by emailing you your results or calling you with them. Your school should have been in contact with you about how exactly they plan to do results day. For A-level students applying to university, your grades will most likely have already reached the university, so you will find out whether or not you have been accepted through UCAS. 

What do I need to do for results day?

At this point, the most important thing is to not be too stressed. Regardless of what your grades are, there are several options for you if you are continuing into further studies, and opportunities for you to appeal your grade or perhaps resit the exam. Some things you should prepare beforehand for is having any documentation you may need, and also to be present on the day or have told the school who will be receiving your grades for you as they cannot give your grades to anyone else. 

Tips for dealing with anxiety before the day 

Something that really helps is taking care of yourself. Make sure you get enough sleep and eat a good breakfast on the day to give yourself a good start to the day. Remember that whatever the outcome, you have done insanely well in a situation never before anticipated, and it is normal to be somewhat nervous. Most importantly, talk to someone about this. The worst thing you can do is bottle up all of this anxiety, so talk to anyone whether it be a therapist or even friends and family. 

These times are strange and unpredictable, and you should be proud of yourselves for being so resilient and getting where you have despite all these difficulties. I have complete faith in all of you!