Looking ahead to summer 2025 results and beyond
As the summer holidays commence and learners and educators across the country take a well-deserved break, David Jones, Chair of Qualifications Wales, reflects on the achievements of learners and outlines the options available as they consider their next steps.
After another busy academic year, learners, teachers and lecturers can all have a well-earned break during the next few weeks. I hope you all enjoy some free time to unwind and do the things you enjoy.
I’d like to start by saying a massive well done to learners for all your hard work completing your qualifications this year, and thank you for all the support of parents, carers and others too. Plus, a huge thank you to all the teachers and lecturers in recognition of all your efforts preparing our learners and supporting them throughout the academic year.
As this summer’s results days approach, anticipation will be building for the thousands of learners across the country waiting to receive their qualification results in a few weeks. Across two weeks in August, more than 400,000 GCSE, AS, A level, Skills Challenge Certificate and Advanced Skills Baccalaureate Wales results will be issued to learners in Wales, as well as many results for vocational qualifications.
Marking and grading take place throughout the summer and are completed by examiners who are trained in the marking schemes. Throughout the marking period, examiners are monitored to make sure they are marking accurately and consistently. Grades are determined by learners’ performance in their assessments, and reflect what they know, understand, and can do.
Progression
As the anticipation builds during the lead up to receiving results, it can also be a tense time as learners consider their next steps after they receive their qualifications. I’m keen to reassure all learners that support is available as you decide on your next move, and there are many options and pathways for you to consider.
For many of those completing AS, A level and other level 3 qualifications, progression to university or other forms of higher education may be the aim. Others may be eager to enter employment to kickstart their careers, often through starting an apprenticeship, recognising the value of earning while they learn with on-the-job training.
For younger learners completing their GCSEs and other qualifications, there is also a wide range of options available, either at a school sixth-form, local further education college, or in work-based learning and apprenticeships. It is a pivotal moment in these individuals’ lives, with the choices that they make now shaping their futures.
Pob lwc
Whatever your results, we would like to congratulate you and every other learner for what you have all managed to achieve this year. I very much hope that you can progress in the direction of your choice or find suitable alternatives that will take you on a journey to an exciting and successful future.
For more support and guidance visit the Qualifications Wales website, or take a look at these partner websites: