Lots of options open after exams (From Barry And District News)

Lots of options open after exams

STUDENTS collecting their A-level results today face a day of mixed emotions; for some it will be cause for celebration; for others a source of disappointment.

But whatever their results, there are more opportunities available than they might think and the advice from Careers Wales is - don't panic and make sure you explore all your options.

Students who have applied for higher education and didn't meet the grades for their first or second choice university or college, should contact them anyway; they may lower their offer or suggest another course to study.

For those without a university place, the UCAS clearing system is available to help applicants find suitable vacancies.

Places will still be available on a wide range of courses. And it's not a last resort, in 2004 over 40,000 people found university places this way.

Alternatively, students may wish to consider re-sitting their exams and re-apply next year to ensure they get the exact course they want.

Of course, university isn't the only option after A and AS Levels. Gap years are becoming more popular with many students choosing to gain work experience abroad or taking time out to travel.

Some young people may also prefer to consider employment and work based training opportunities such as Modern Apprenticeships and Foundation Modern Apprenticeships. These allow young people to earn while they learn picking up on-the-job skills as well as work related qualifications.

Shirley Rogers, Contract Manager, Careers Wales Cardiff and Vale said: "With so many choices open to students there's a lot to think about, so don't make any hasty decisions. "Young people should talk their ideas through with parents, teachers, friends and their local Careers Wales adviser.

"Advisers will be at most schools or colleges on results day and appointments can also be made at our local careers centres."

Students should also look out in the post for the Where Now? leaflet produced by Careers Wales and ELWa. This gives a summary of the main options they have at results time. They can also make use of Careers Wales' online service www.careerswales.com/wherenow

The website provides information on education, work and training opportunities, career planning tools and access to over 600 printable careers leaflets and links to other useful websites.

For further information contact Barry Careers Centre, tel 01446 410600; Cardiff Careers Centre, tel 029 2090 6700.

Or call the helpline service learndirect freephone 0800 100 900 (if calling from a mobile please ring 029 20906801 - standard mobile rates apply).