'SEEK advice as soon as possible'

That is the message from Andrew Wren, the principal and chief executive of Furness College, to any youngsters who did not get the GCSE grades they wanted.

“We know it can be a nervous time when students get their GCSE grades – particularly after such a long wait – but our advice is not to panic, whatever your grades," he said.

“Lots of students will be smiling as they get the grades they need for their first-choice next step, whether that’s college or an apprenticeship, but if you’ve not got the results you wanted the key thing is to seek advice as early as possible.

“Don’t be put off and think education is not right for you. Many people have gone on to great careers after getting modest GCSEs grades and, for some, it has even spurred them on to achieve at the highest level."

Advice sessions are taking place next month for any students who want to find out more about the college and what it can offer.

“Furness College is in a brilliant position to help students because we have the biggest choice of qualifications in Cumbria, with a course for every learner," he said.

"So whether they enjoy the practical side of learning and want to study a vocational course at our state-of-the-art Channelside campus, or want to develop academic skills in the classroom studying A levels at Barrow Sixth Form College, we can support them every step of the way.

“Our staff are experts at listening to young people’s aims and ambitions and can help find courses to put them on track to their ultimate career goal. Our staff are in college over the summer to help out, or students can contact us via our Facebook page for any last-minute questions they have about their grades or course choices. Whatever your grades, we can help you Say Yes to Success.

“Call us today, drop in at either of our campuses or come along to our September advice sessions."

Sessions take place on September 2 from 3.30pm to 5.30pm; September 7 from noon to 3pm and September 21 from noon to 3pm.