Students across Essex are collecting their A-level, vocational and technical results today (Thursday 18 August).
This year is the first time formal exams have taken place for two years due to the Covid-19 pandemic.
The previous two year's grades were based on teacher assessment drawing on a range of evidence, including mock exams, coursework and in-class assessments.
Cllr Tony Ball, our Cabinet Member for Education Excellence, Lifelong Learning and Employability, has praised young people for their efforts.
He said: "Although exams have taken place this year as normal, students have still faced significant disruption to their education as we continue to recover from the impacts of the Covid-19 pandemic.
“Their results are even more impressive when taken in the context of these difficult circumstances. I would like to extend my warmest congratulations to all those receiving their results and wish them the very best of luck for the future, whatever path they are now pursuing.
“I would also like to thank all our teaching and school colleagues from across Essex for their ongoing hard work and dedication throughout the last year. These results are also a testament to them.”
We will not be publishing our usual headline figures this year and will not be making judgements on performance based on 2022 results data.
The National Careers Service - telephone 0800 100 900, open 16 to 30 August from 8am to 10pm - and school or college career advisers can provide information, advice and guidance to students.
For any questions students have about university admissions or higher education courses, they should contact the university or college directly. They can also contact UCAS on 0371 468 0 468 for more information.
Until 18 October students can apply for a course using Clearing if they have missed out on an offer - or have declined their firm choice.
If a student is not happy with their results in some subjects, they have the options to appeal their results or retake their exams in those subjects.
Young people who are feeling worried about what to do next or overwhelmed by leaving school and starting university, are encouraged to find out about the local wellbeing support available.