Advice is available for all pupils who have picked up their GCSE results this week from Connexions Dudley, which is part of Dudley Council.

Students who attended any school in the Dudley borough can access guidance from Connexions advisers, at no charge to themselves.

Youngsters can ask questions in a live webchat at www.connexionsdudley.org on Thursday August 21 from 1pm – 5pm and again on Friday August 22 from 9.30am to 1pm.  All pupils in the borough should have already received details on how to log in to this, or they can contact Connexions directly to ask for the login details.

Alternatively, students can talk one-to-one with a Connexions adviser on the phone to get expert advice on how to make the most of their future.

Councillor Tim Crumpton, cabinet member for children’s services, said:

“The main advice is, no matter what results you get, don’t panic, there are options open to you that can allow you to achieve your goals.  If you are not sure what to do, or just need some quick advice on the best steps to take, please contact our staff at Connexions and they can give you free, impartial and expert advice.”

All young people who have finished year 11 must now stay in some form of learning until their 18th birthday.

Options available to 16 – 18-year olds include:

Full or part-time education in a school sixth form, sixth form college, or further education college
An apprenticeship
A traineeship
A study programme with a work-based learning provider to help prepare young people for work or further education
Employment with training to NVQ level 2.

For more information visit www.connexionsdudley.org or call Connexions on 01384 811400.