Get all your news in one place.
100's of premium titles.
One app.
Start reading
Bristol Post
Bristol Post
National
Andrew McQuarrie

What you should say to your child on A-level results day - and what NOT to say

Exam results day. A time of celebration for some. But, for others, a very difficult 24 hours indeed.

And while the emotions will be most intense for students themselves, parents and guardians can face challenges too - not least knowing what to say to their child.

Here at Bristol Live, we've put together a series of pointers that might help you out.

DO tell your child you're proud of them

Perhaps your son or daughter mustered a disappointing set of results. Perhaps they took one look at their maths paper and stormed out the hall. Or maybe they secured an astonishing set of results, passing with flying colours.

Regardless of how they did, you should make sure you tell your child you're proud of them.

Just the very act of entering that exam hall can be a difficult step - and not one that should be dismissed lightly.

DO allow time for results to be digested

When your child picks up their results, you should give them time and space to read their grades without interruption.

And even before that, it is important your child is allowed to choose when it is right for them to open the envelope.

It is always best to refrain from pestering them for news.

DO consider apprenticeships

While universities and colleges have become increasingly common destinations over the years, you should always remember there are alternative routes to a successful career.

Apprenticeships are a way of blending work with education - and as such they frequently offer the best of both worlds.

Delighted students celebrate A-level results day at Badminton School, Bristol, back in 2008 (Barry Batchelor/PA Wire)

DON'T take everything to heart

If you child has not achieved the results they were hoping for, in their frustration there is a chance they will make some hurtful remarks.

Make sure you take such words with a pinch of salt.

When enough time has passed for the grades to be digested, they will recognise your support - even if not always vocally.

DON'T compare grades among brothers and sisters

It is highly advisable not to use results day as a launchpad for the latest battle in a sibling rivalry.

Every child has their own talents and expectations and none should be made to feel they are the proverbial black sheep.

Going back to an earlier suggestion in this article, make sure you tell your child you are proud of them.

Sign up to read this article
Read news from 100's of titles, curated specifically for you.
Already a member? Sign in here
Related Stories
Top stories on inkl right now
One subscription that gives you access to news from hundreds of sites
Already a member? Sign in here
Our Picks
Fourteen days free
Download the app
One app. One membership.
100+ trusted global sources.