Medway GCSE students: free Chatham IAG drop-in, 20 August

GCSE students weighing up their next step after results day can attend a free IAG drop-in session in Chatham on Thursday, 20 August. The session runs from 9am to 3pm at the Marketing Suite, Waterfront Bus Station, and is open on a drop-in basis.

The Information, Advice and Guidance Service (IAG) session is aimed at students who want to talk through their options after receiving GCSE results, including further education, work and apprenticeships. No booking or entry requirements have been stated beyond the drop-in arrangement.

A place to discuss the next step after GCSE results

Results week can bring different outcomes for different students: a clear route into college or sixth form for some, and fresh decisions for others. Medway Council says students who are unsure of their next move, or disappointed with their results, should speak to their school first.

The Chatham session offers another point of support for GCSE students who need practical guidance. The IAG team can provide career advice, help with job searches and applications, and support with CV and interview skills. It can also help young people explore apprenticeships, college, sixth form and training-course options.

Cllr Tracy Coombs, Medway Council’s Portfolio Holder for Education, said exam results mark a pivotal point for young people as they move into further education, full-time work or apprenticeships. She said support and guidance are available for those who do not receive the results they hoped for.

The 20 August session at Waterfront Bus Station

The IAG drop-in session for GCSE students will be held at the Marketing Suite at Waterfront Bus Station in Chatham. Its location makes the session a defined local option for students who want an in-person conversation rather than relying only on online information.

The council’s IAG service supports Medway young people aged 16 and 17 who are not in education, employment or training. Its wider support includes finding and applying for apprenticeships, applying to college or sixth form, and identifying training courses.

Support for students considering college, work or apprenticeships

For students planning to continue academically, the council points to higher-education options in and around Medway, including the University of Kent, University of Greenwich, Canterbury Christ Church University and MidKent College. It also notes that Kent Choices has a GCSE Clearing tool for current Year 11 students seeking available courses across Kent and Medway.

Students more interested in an apprenticeship can search and apply for roles through GOV.UK. The council also highlights the Medway Council Apprenticeship Academy and Medway Adult Education apprenticeship programmes.

For broader careers guidance, the National Careers Service offers advice through its website and careers advisers on 0800 100 900. Students seeking wellbeing support can also access services listed by Medway Council, including the Medway Therapeutic Alliance and Kooth.

The confirmed practical next step for GCSE students who want face-to-face guidance is the free IAG drop-in at the Marketing Suite, Waterfront Bus Station, Chatham, between 9am and 3pm on 20 August.

Source: Medway Council