10 Things To Do If You Failed Your Examinations
Sometimes it can be very difficult to predict the outcome of your exams, whether you be in secondary school or even university. This is probably because, exams are arguably one of the most feared things in education for students. Whether a student is confident in their abilities in their chosen subject(s) or not, exams can often both predictably and unpredictably bring out the best, and more than often, the worst, in a student. The following tips will help you to cope with this unfortunate scenario.
1. Don’t Panic.
This is more of a ‘what not to do’ but it’s really important. This is not the end of the world, no matter what it feels like now. Take some time to think about your options and most importantly don’t rush into a decision you might regret later on.
2. Let Out Your Emotions.
It’s not always good to keep it all in. If you’ve suffered a disappointment, you’re allowed to be sad or angry or frustrated. It’s normal to feel these kinds of emotions. Sometimes having a good old cry will really help the situation. Allowing yourself time to experience and explore your feelings is not something to be shied away from.
3. Don’t Give Up On Your Dream.
If, for instance, you didn’t get the BGCSE results you were hoping for or expecting but are still super set on pursuing the same course, get in contact with the university you’d hoped to go to. Lay out your case and ask them whether you might still be considered, there is no harm in asking. You can also check out other universities through clearing and see what they still have available.
4. Get Advice From People You Trust.
Your family and friends will probably all have different ideas of how you can go forward so listen to them! But remember, at the end of the day, this is your decision and you have to choose what will be best for you. You’ll soon find that there are lots of people who have found themselves in a similar boat to you.
5. Consider Doing Something Different.
Sometimes shut doors (or bad results) can lead you through new and exciting doors you’d never have imagined. This could be another college course, a year out, volunteering, work placements, there are endless options.
6. Re-Sit Your Exams.
If you didn’t pass this time, there are other opportunities to take the exams again. If you’re in 4th year you’ll be able to complete your course again in 5th year, and having that extra year’s experience could help you do extra-well the second time round.
7. Talk To Your Teacher.
Your teacher may be as surprised by your result as you, and will be able to advise you on what next steps might be suited to you. They might recommend resitting the subject, or they might suggest that you focus on another subject area in which they’ve noticed your talent.
8. Take A New Approach.
Our first thought when deciding what to do after school, is often to pick between work or education, but actually you can do both. Government internships are an excellent way to earn a qualification while also working and gaining real industry experience.
9. Brush Up On Some New Skills.
It’s perfectly ok if Maths or English just aren’t the subject for you. Why not have a look outwith school to gain more skills and qualifications that can help you move on in your career or education. Check out what courses are going on at your local college, or have a look online for online courses you could take; first aid, sign language, dressmaking and photography, are just a few excellent courses you could look into.
10. Go Your Own Way.
If you’ve got a brilliant idea for your own business, you don’t need to go through years of education or working for other people before launching your own business. There are lots of opportunities available for young people to get funding and training to start your own business.
