With thousands of pupils across Southend-on-Sea receiving their GCSE results today, the City Council and cabinet member wishes all students luck and congratulates everyone for their dedication.
Councillor Laurie Burton, cabinet member for children, young people and SEND, said: "As a secondary school teacher myself I know what a big milestone and occasion GCSE results day is for local pupils, their families and teachers too.
"I say good luck to everyone today and also well done for all your dedication and commitment to learning over the last five years.
"Whatever your results and whatever comes next you have options. The council and I wish you well and promise our commitment to work closely with schools to ensure all local pupils continue to receive the best possible education in our City."
Southend Connexions are running a drop-in session on Friday 23 August at The Forum Southend from 10am to 2pm. Attendees will get a one-to-one session with a Connexions adviser and will also be supported to talk with both Southend-on-Sea colleges and training providers that will also be attending.
If you cannot make this, you can make an appointment from next Tuesday onwards by calling 01702 215971 or emailing connexions@southend.gov.uk.
The National Careers Service (telephone 0800 100 900 or chat online, from 8am to 8pm Monday to Friday or 10am to 5pm Saturdays and Bank holiday Monday) and school or college career advisers can also provide information, advice and guidance to students about resits, qualification and subject choices, as well as apprenticeships, careers advice, and gap years.
Any young people who are feeling worried about what to do next or overwhelmed by leaving school and starting university, can find out about the local wellbeing support available.
If a student is not happy with their results in some subjects, they have the option to appeal their results or retake their exams in those subjects. Their school or college will be able to tell them about these processes.
Adult learners who attended Southend Adult Community College (SACC) have also picked up their GCSE results today.
A 16 to 19 study programme is available at SACC, including maths and English GCSE. Visit the Southend Adult Community College website to find out more.