1. Take time out 

Things are about to happen very quickly in the next few days, with exam results and decisions about universities imminent. Try to take some time to help your son or daughter take stock of their choices and think about their options. 

Are they prepared for different outcomes, and what will you do if things don’t go as expected? Try to make a plan and help them be as prepared as possible before decisions have to be made.

2. Stay positive   

For any of you with a nervous teen anxiously waiting for their exam results, make sure you stay calm so they know there is a grounded guardian on hand to help them.

Try to avoid asking if they are  nervous too, which can only make them focus on that feeling. Set an expectation that you are there for them no matter what and help them manage those nerves on the big day.

3. Be Prepared 

Remember, whatever the exam results may be, there are many options for university study and apprenticeships this summer.  See what’s available — there are a vast amount of courses on offer with a variety of entry requirements. Talk as a family and make sure you’re not facing any unexpected stresses once those results are out.

There are some great tips and useful information about the Clearing process and how to navigate it via our Clearing advice for parents and guardians page and you can view our full list of courses on offer.

Find out about our great student community and why they rated UWL first in London and third in England for student satisfaction in the UK* in this year’s National Student Survey.

4. Offer support and stay calm 

Help them figure out what they’re good at and what they can do if things don’t work out as they think it might. See the bigger picture and help them see the positives in all their options – and remember, there are many different ways to get where we want to be in life.

Ultimately be prepared, know what to expect, and be supportive – it will all have a major impact on the decision making abilities and stress levels of all concerned once results are out! And remember we have teams of excellent people in place to help you on the day.

On a practical note, if calling the Clearing line, make sure their UCAS ID number and results are to hand so they can get straight down to business!