Further education students congratulated for their efforts and signposted to further support

Students receiving their results from further education courses today are being congratulated for their efforts. All are being praised for their determination, with the educational settings which have supported them also being recognised, following the disruption in their education over the recent years as a result of Covid.

Cllr Penny Carpenter, cabinet member for Children's Services at Norfolk County Council, said, "Congratulations to students receiving their results today. With the support of their schools, colleges, and families, the resilience and perseverance of these young people, many of whom have sat major exams for the first time, has shone through and I hope every single one of them is very proud of what they have achieved.

"I wish them all the very best as take their next steps whether that is to university, an apprenticeship or entering into the workplace."

Every year sees students facing decisions over what to do next with a growing variety of options available for young people at 18.

• Norfolk County Council's Help You Choose website offers a wide range of help and support on different options and advice on next steps whatever their results, support with CV writing, apprenticeship vacancies, and information about different careers. It also has a space for parents or carers to help them understand the different options for their child.
• UCAS offers guidance to support students through the process of securing a university place with information about insurance choices and clearing. Anyone who has just missed out on the grades they need they should contact the admissions team at their preferred university, as they may still be able to offer them a place. There are already nearly 30,000 courses available in clearing this year so there will be plenty of high-quality choices available.
• Students can find out more about education and training choices by visiting the 'Get the Jump' Skills for Life content hub on the National Careers Service website. During the exam results period, the hub will also have key information on resits, clearing, appeals and more. Students can also chat directly to an expert adviser via webchat or by calling the National Careers Service exam results helpline on 0800 100 900 from Thursday 18 August until Friday 2 September open weekday between 8am and 8pm and Saturday 10am to 5pm.
• Norfolk and Waveney's Children and Young People's Health Services Just One Norfolk website offers mental health support and helpful advice on managing anxiety.