GCSE Results - What Next?
Post exam results day support with Southend Careers Service
Southend Careers Service are offering support for young people receiving their exam results, as well as those who didn't sit exams or those not in education, employment or training. Attendees can receive advice, explore their options, and plan their next steps with confidence.
The event takes place on Friday 21st August 2026, between 10am and 1pm at The Forum, Elmer Approach, Southend-On-Sea, SS1 1NS. No booking required.
In addition, young people can drop in to chat with a careers adviser between the 25th and 28th August between 9am to 3pm, or call the service on 01702 534 300 or email careersguidance@southend.gov.uk
Page introduction
After GCSE results, you and your young person will be thinking about their next stage. You may also be thinking about options if they don't get the results they are hoping for. We have put together this information to help. We hope you find it useful.
Most post-16 settings will accept those who haven't achieved a pass (grade 4) in their GCSEs. However, for Maths and English, resitting is compulsory if a pass isn't achieved. The young person will need to study these subjects until they pass or turn 18.
Functional Skills
Some young people do a Functional Skills programme.
Functional Skills are qualifications developed by the Government. They are available at:
- levels 1 and 2, and;
- entry levels 1, 2 and 3
Each qualification is separate and is assessed independently.
The September Guarantee
This is a guarantee of an offer, made by the end of September, of:
- an appropriate place in post-16 education or training for;
- every young person completing compulsory education
The September Guarantee is an offer of a place in either:
- a school sixth form
- a college of further education
- employment with training to at least level 2
- an apprenticeship
Making sure young people have a place to progress onto is important. It helps them make a seamless transition into post-16 learning or employment with training.
The September Guarantee is supported by good quality information, advice and guidance. This can come from a number of sources including:
- teachers
- parents and family friends
- Careers Coordinators and Guidance Advisers
Further information and support
Southend Careers Service provide careers information advice and guidance for people of all ages.
Their personal advisers can offer one to one help with:
- CV writing
- covering letters
- vacancy information
- finding the right courses
- interview techniques
- offering a range of educational providers, colleges and training providers
- traineeships
- looking for Apprenticeships
- Higher Education
- personal statement writing
For an appointment, call 01702 534300 or email careersguidance@southend.gov.uk
Read statutory guidance relating to the participation of young people in education, employment and training.