Results Day can bring a mix of emotions, from excitement to uncertainty and reflection, but above all, it’s a moment to acknowledge and celebrate your hard work and look at the opportunities that lie ahead.
Whatever you are feeling, remember that there are many paths to success, and your grades are only one part of the journey. If you are thinking about your next steps, regardless of the results you got, here are some great options to consider.
Plus, hear from some of our colleagues as they share what they did after school and how it has guided them to their current roles.
University:
If you’ve secured the results you needed for your university offer, that’s a huge achievement. University can be a fantastic place to further develop your knowledge and explore your interests, whilst also meeting new people.
"After leaving school, I went to university and completed a degree, although I didn’t pursue a career in the field I studied. I found that simply attending university demonstrated my ability to learn, think critically, and meet deadlines, skills that helped me transition successfully into the world of work.
If you're considering university, try not to stress too much about choosing a specific course or institution. In my experience, transferable skills and qualities like a strong work ethic are just as valuable as subject-specific knowledge. I’ve learned that career paths aren’t always linear; you have to seize opportunities as they arise. There’s no single blueprint for how to navigate life after school." – Sam Goody, Associate Director, Commercial Services
"I studied Accounting at university after leaving sixth form with an interest in better understanding how businesses manage their finances. The degree gave me a solid foundation and key skills that have helped me grow in my current finance role. Additionally, doing a degree boosted my chartered accountancy journey, giving exemptions on some of the exams required to become chartered. Being at Opus and having the chance for further studies has helped me get closer to my career goals." – Shakil Chowdury, Assistant Financial Accountant
Clearing:
If you didn’t get the grades you needed, don’t worry! UCAS Clearing is a great way to find alternative courses and universities. You can explore different options you might not have considered before, so keep an open mind as you may discover a course that’s an even better fit for you.
Apprenticeships:
Apprenticeships are becoming an increasingly popular route into employment. They combine practical work with study, allowing you to gain qualifications and real-world experience at the same time. They’re available in a wide range of levels and industries and are a fantastic alternative to traditional university routes.
“I joined Opus as a marketing apprentice in 2020, after deciding to leave sixth form after one year because I felt it wasn’t right for me. The opportunity to do an apprenticeship in marketing was a great chance to gain real-life experience whilst earning a qualification – and I have no regrets! I have since completed a second apprenticeship and progressed to Marketing and Content Executive.” - Kim Sale, Marketing and Content Executive
Gap year:
Taking a gap year can give you time to travel, volunteer, work, or simply figure out what you want to do next. It’s an opportunity to develop life experience and return to education or work with a clearer sense of direction.
Jump straight into employment:
Some people are ready to dive into the world of work right away. Entry-level roles give you the chance to gain experience and start climbing the career ladder whilst earning money.
"After leaving sixth form, I decided to go to the bright lights of London to do Events Management. Unfortunately, due to some issues with my chosen University, my course was withdrawn, and I was left without any options. So, I walked into a recruitment agency in London for some temporary work, and they said, "Have you considered recruitment?". That was 2016, and almost 10 years later, I am still within the industry! Sometimes the right job sneaks up on you." – Victoria Butcher, Senior Recruitment Consultant
If you are looking to go straight into employment, we’re here to help. Whether you’re interested in temporary work, a permanent position, or just some advice on your next steps, working with a recruitment agency can help you find opportunities that align with your skills and interests.
Don’t just rely on qualifications, soft skills matter too!
In today’s job market, with the increasing use of AI, employers are looking for more than just qualifications and hard skills. Soft skills, like communication, emotional intelligence, adaptability, and problem-solving, are just as important as technical knowledge.
Ask yourself:
Are you a great listener?
Do you stay calm under pressure?
Can you work well in a team?
Are you eager to learn and grow?
These qualities can set you apart and make a real difference in your career journey.
Regardless of your results, remember that this is just the beginning. There are so many ways to build a successful and fulfilling career, so keep an open mind and find the best opportunity for you.
Ready to explore your employment options? Get in touch with us today!
