Cllr Andrew Parry, Dorset Council portfolio holder for Children, Education and Early Help, said, “It has been a difficult and challenging year, an academic year like no other. If you are not sure what you would like to do next, or your grades are not what you hoped for, please do not despair.

“There are many different routes, from further education, to apprenticeships, work and training.”

Information about higher education, apprenticeships and work can be found on the www.careerpilot.org.uk/information/a-levels/after-a-levels-what-next and on the Dorset Council website.

Advice about education and training options for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND) can also be found on the Dorset Council website.

Emotional support and advice for anyone who feels disappointed is available through https://youngminds.org.uk/blog/dealing-with-disappointing-exam-results/ and student.kooth.com/.

Advice about apprenticeships can be found online through amazingapprenticeships.com/

Advice from the Southern Universities Network can be found on their website.

Inspirational case studies, showing different routes chosen by actual young people, are available on the Dorset Council website.

Advice and online live chats with advisors is also available from careers and employability experts, can be provided through www.ansbury.co.uk/.

The National Careers Service offer a live web chat advice service on their website.

Advice including job centre links can be found on the Government website.