If you’ve received your A level results, and you didn’t get the results you’d hoped for, or maybe you’ve just not yet decided what you want to do, we’ve got some advice to help you on your way.

With the Derby Promise, getting access to development and career opportunities is easier than ever. Read on to learn what could be the right next move for you.

University

For many people, going to university is a natural progression from school or college.

Once you’ve had your results through, make sure you check the conditions of your university offer, and that your results match the requirements.

You can either accept your firm choice to secure your place on the UCAS website or opt into Clearing to explore available courses at other universities - whether you missed your grades, exceeded them, or simply changed your mind.

The University of Derby, named University of the Year in the 2027 Uni Compare rankings, welcomes students through Clearing and their advisers are ready to help.

You don't have to accept your place right away.

The space is yours, and it isn’t going anywhere. Though you’ll be tempted, take a few days to think about the options available to you, and then accept your chosen course.

Apprenticeships

Not all careers have to start with university. Apprenticeships are an increasingly popular way of kick-starting careers.

Anyone over 16 can apply for an apprenticeship scheme. You will balance real world working experience with theory, all whilst gaining qualifications and earning money.

There are thousands of apprenticeships across the UK, which you can browse on the GOV.UK website. Another tip is to search employer websites, who tend to advertise directly on their sites.

If you are looking to improve your skills, the Derby Adult Learning Service has a huge variety of courses offering several different qualifications that may help you get into the career that’s right for you. The Derby Adult Learning Service is only available for those aged 19 or over.

As part of the Derby Promise, we have launched the Employment and Skills Hub to help you gain the confidence, support and skills to move into employment. You can also get a head start on your career by taking part in the Journey to Work Programme. Our Journey to Work programme combines Employability sessions, with 121 intensive employment focussed support, skills delivery and / or work placement to offer you an alternative opportunity and routeway into employment.  The Journey to Work Programme is open to those aged between 16 and 25. You can also subscribe to Derby Jobs Weekly to see all the latest jobs in Derby.

Degree apprenticeships

If you want to get a degree, but you’re worried about finances or just not sure that a traditional university course is right for you, a degree apprenticeship could be a great option.

A degree apprenticeship allows you to study towards a degree while you work, getting experience whilst earning a salary! The training during this apprenticeship takes place in your working hours, and you won’t have to pay for your tuition.

Deferred entry

It may be that you want to go to university or college, but you don’t want to go just yet. That’s OK – loads of people do just that.

It’s possible to make a deferred entry application, so that, provided you are accepted, you can take a year out between school, college or university and be guaranteed a place the next academic year.

There are two ways to defer entry:

  1. When applying – you can select a ‘deferred’ start date for your chosen course.
  2. After you’ve applied – contact your chosen university or college and ask if they’d be happy to change your course start date to the following year.

Gap year

If you’ve decided to take a gap year, great; enjoy! Once you’re ready to go on to whatever you have planned, we know you’ll ace it.

However, there are a few options to consider when you’re planning your year gap year:

  • Travel - More people than ever are choosing to travel during their gap year. It’s an amazing thing to do, and you will come away with some amazing friends, experiences and tales. It’s expensive to travel so planning is key. You could work in the UK for six months, and travel for six months. Both activities will look great on your CV too.
  • Volunteering - Volunteering either abroad or in the UK is a brilliant way to enhance your CV, and gain valuable ‘real life’ experience. Taking the time to volunteer is also a great way to ‘test-drive’ different types of work. Often, volunteering projects are short-term, so it is likely that you will have the opportunity to volunteer at a variety of places over the year. Be sure you are making informed decisions based on what you want to do. Most importantly: have fun!

If your results weren't what you were expecting

Though everyone has worked hard over the last two years to achieve their grades, a small number of students may be disappointed with their results.

It’s totally normal to feel upset or disappointed, but what do you do next?

Time out

Take time to process your results, but try not to dwell on them. It’s important to remember that feeling upset and maybe a bit unsure about what to do next is totally normal. Make sure you talk to your friends and family about how you are feeling; remember, they only want the best for you, so try to keep them in the loop.

Focus

Make sure you take some time to process your results. Once you have done, have a think about what might have gone wrong and focus on what you want to do next.

What next?

Think forward. What are your options? Do you have a plan B?

If you were hoping to go to university, but are now unable to, think about looking at Clearing courses on UCAS. You might find a course you hadn’t thought of taking before, but that sounds right up your street.

Remember, while some jobs require a degree, there are plenty that don’t. Apprenticeships, volunteering and getting straight into work are all options available to you.

Still not sure?

If you’re still feeling unsure, there are loads of places that you can look to for help and guidance.

You’ve got some big decisions to make, so think about your options carefully, and try not to rush into anything. It may not seem like it, but this is a great opportunity to stop and really think about what you want to do now.

The National Careers Service offers a wealth of advice, from career advice, to help with your CV, to interview tips, training, and loads more. You can call them (0800 100 900), or talk to them online.

The Exam Results Helpline offers free advice, and will be open at 8am on the day your results are released. Contact the hotline on 0808 100 8000.

Other useful links:

Councillor Paul Hezelgrave, Cabinet Member for Children, Young People and Skills, said:

Whatever your A level results, today is the start of an exciting new chapter. There are so many different routes into further education, training and employment, and we want every young person to feel confident about the opportunities available to them. Whether it’s university, an apprenticeship, further training or starting work, there are plenty of ways to build a successful future. Take some time to consider your options, ask for advice and, most importantly, believe in yourself and your ambitions.