Posted: 24/07/2025
GCSE Results Day can be an emotional moment for students, and a nerve-wracking one for parents and carers too. Your guidance and support will be essential if your child is eagerly awaiting top marks or is uncertain about the outcome.
This guide breaks down what to expect and how to help your child navigate the day and the decisions that follow.
Contents:
What happens on GCSE results day?
What if my child doesn’t get the grades they need?
When is GCSE Results Day?
GCSE Results Day 2025 is on Thursday, 21st August 2025.
Students will be able to collect their results in person from The Hub at Doncaster College at 9 am. If you cannot attend college, results will be emailed out to your child’s student email address from 11 am.
What Happens on GCSE Results Day?
On the day, students will receive their results listing their GCSE subjects and the grades achieved. English and Maths tutors and staff will be on hand to provide support, answer questions, and help with any immediate queries you or your child may have.
It can be an emotional day, so prepare for a range of reactions, from joy and relief to disappointment or confusion. Your presence and calm reassurance will go a long way.
Understanding GCSE grades
In England, GCSEs are now graded on a scale from 9 to 1, replacing the previous A* to U grading system. Below is a comparison of how the two systems align.
The numerical grading scale does not have a direct one-to-one correspondence with the previous letter system. However, there are some key points where the two align:
- The lower boundary of grade 7 matches the lower boundary of grade A
- The lower boundary of grade 4 aligns with the lower boundary of grade C
- The lower boundary of grade 1 corresponds to the lower boundary of grade G
- The three highest number grades — 9, 8, and 7 — span the range of the former top grades, A* and A
How to Support Your Child on GCSE Results Day
Stay Calm and Reassuring
However your child feels about their results, let them know you’re proud of the effort they’ve made. Avoid pressuring them or comparing them to others.
Be There to Listen
Sometimes, they just need a chance to express their emotions. Let them talk about how they feel before jumping into problem-solving mode.
Focus on the Next Step
Whether the results are better or worse than expected, the focus should be on the opportunities ahead. Help them explore all the options available.
What Happens Next?
Once results are in, your child can confirm their next step, whether that’s:
- Vocational courses
- T-Levels (a mix of classroom learning and industry placement)
- Apprenticeships (earning while learning)
- University courses
- Other training or further education programmes
If they’ve already applied, they may need to confirm their place. If not, we offer support and can help find a suitable course for your child, even at the last minute.
What If They Don’t Get the GCSE Results They Need?
First, reassure them that it’s not the end of the road and there are always options. This may be appealing your mark, remarking your paper, or re-sitting the exam.
We advise students to speak to their tutor regarding any of the above options to see how we can help.
GCSE results day is a big moment, but it’s just one step in your child’s journey. Whatever the outcome, there are always options and opportunities ahead. With encouragement and the right support, every student can find a path that fits them. Celebrate their effort, remind them of their strengths, and let them know that success isn’t one-size-fits-all.