West Sussex students: support if results change plans

Students across West Sussex are receiving A-level, AS level, T Level and vocational qualification results on 13 August. For some, the grades will confirm a planned university place, apprenticeship or job; for others, they may prompt a fresh conversation about the route ahead.

West Sussex County Council says students do not need to make those decisions alone. Councillor Sam Raby, cabinet member for Children, Young People and Learning, said results day can bring mixed emotions and that advice is available whether a young person is considering university, training, work or time to explore options.

Start with your school or college

Students with questions about grades, offers or available courses should contact their school or college first. Staff can discuss the options open to that student and help them consider their next step.

This is particularly useful where a result has changed an original plan. A school or college can provide advice based on the courses and opportunities available to the individual, rather than assuming one route suits everyone.

Students looking at the wider results-day picture can also compare experiences in Lancashire after this year’s results.

Education, apprenticeships and employment routes

The council identifies several possible next steps for young people whose plans are still taking shape:

continuing in education or further training;
exploring an apprenticeship;
moving into employment;
considering volunteering opportunities; or
taking time to review the available options.

A-levels, AS levels, T Levels and vocational qualifications can lead to different pathways, so students should use their own results and circumstances when discussing what is realistic and appropriate.

Free careers guidance for eligible young people

West Sussex County Council’s Careers Team offers free information, advice and guidance to eligible 16-to-24-year-olds who live in West Sussex and are not in education, employment or training. The team can help young people explore education, apprenticeships, employment, further training and volunteering.

Students and families can contact the team at [email protected] or by calling 033 022 22700. The council also points young people feeling stressed, anxious or low towards emotional wellbeing information and support through the e-wellbeing website.

Ofqual publishes regional grade breakdowns for those seeking official context on this year’s results.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do if my results have changed my university, apprenticeship or job plans?

Start by pausing before making a rushed decision. Your results may open different routes rather than close every option. Contact your school or college first to check your grades, any offers and the realistic choices available to you. You could still explore a revised course, an apprenticeship, further training, work, volunteering or time to plan your next move.

How can I get practical help after results day in West Sussex?

Ask your school or college for an appointment as soon as possible, and take your results, offer details and any deadlines with you. Write down the questions you need answered, such as whether you can change course, use Clearing, defer a place or apply for an apprenticeship. Eligible West Sussex residents aged 16 to 24 can also seek free careers information, advice and guidance through West Sussex County Council’s Careers Team.

Will lower or unexpected grades stop me from finding a good route into work or training?

Not necessarily. Employers and training providers may value vocational qualifications, practical experience, enthusiasm and transferable skills alongside grades. Apprenticeships can combine paid work with training, while further education or a different course can help you gain the entry requirements needed later. The strongest option is the one that fits your current qualifications, finances, interests and longer-term goals.

How do results-day decisions affect families and employers in West Sussex?

Families can help by focusing on the young person’s priorities instead of treating one outcome as the only measure of success. Local employers benefit when students understand routes into apprenticeships, entry-level roles and skills training, helping them build a future workforce. Early conversations with schools, colleges and careers advisers can prevent missed deadlines and make transitions into learning or work smoother.

What should I do next, and where can I find official advice?

Check every deadline attached to your offer or application today, then arrange a conversation with your school or college. For impartial local support, use West Sussex County Council’s Careers Team information for eligible 16-to-24-year-olds. If university remains your goal, check the official UCAS service for Clearing and course availability; for apprenticeships, use the government’s Find an Apprenticeship service. Keep copies of your results and any emails confirming offers or deadlines.

Source: West Sussex County Council

Context & actions About this article

Source check How this guidance was checked

This guide is based on the council’s 13 August 2026 results-day notice and keeps eligibility and contact details as stated by the source.

Checks

Confirmed the results covered: A-levels, AS levels, T Levels and vocational qualifications...
Checked that schools and colleges are the first named source of advice for students with q...
Confirmed the Careers Team eligibility: West Sussex residents aged 16 to 24 who are not in...
Retained the council’s published email address and telephone number.

West Sussex County Council Check official results context