We appreciate that there may be a lot of anxiety and uncertainty over what to expect and how your grades will affect your options for September.
When will exams happen in 2023?
GCSE and A Level exams will happen in May and June, as normal, and the exam boards have now published their final summer exam timetables. Other specialist/vocational exams may happen during or outside of these dates.
Your tutor(s) will tell you when and where you exams will take place.
How should I prepare?
- Don't leave revision to the last minute: Starting early will allow you to cover everything thoroughly and give you time to clear any doubts or queries with your tutor(s).
- Create a study plan: Break down your revision topics into manageable chunks and plan when you will study each. Remember to include breaks to avoid burnout.
- Practice with past papers: Past papers are a great resource to familiarise yourself with the exam format and question styles. Your tutor(s) may be able to provide you with past papers.
What happens on the day of the exam?
Make sure that you are prepared and ready to take your exam.
- Please ensure that you arrive at least 30 mins before the start of your exam.
- Bring any equipment that you will need for the exam . For example: black pen, pencil, ruler, rubber, protractor, compass, scientific calculator*, bilingual dictionary (if permitted), etc
- If you are taking a water bottle in with you, it must be clear and have no label.
* Calculators must have their case/covers removed before the exam, with the case/cover left in your bag/jacket at the front/outside the exam room.
Exam tips
- Read instructions carefully: Before you start answering questions, read the instructions thoroughly. This will help you understand what you're expected to do and avoid mistakes.
- Time management: Keep an eye on the time and try to allocate it appropriately. Don't spend too long on one question if you're struggling - it might be better to move on and come back to it later.
- Answer as much as possible: If you're stuck, try to write something - partial marks are better than no marks.
- Double-check your answers: If you have any time left, review your answers and correct any errors.
When will I get my results?
You will receive your results on Results Day:
|
A Levels / Level 3 Vocational |
Thursday 17 August 2023 |
|
GCSE / Level 2 Vocational |
Thursday 24 August 2023 |
|
Others |
Varies by awarding body |
How will I get my results?
Newbury College students should receive their exam results by email to their college email address on or before Results Day.
For Year 11 and Year 13 students at school, your school should have already contacted you with instructions on accessing your results.
You should NOT go to the College to collect your results.
If you have not received your grades by the end of the Results Day, you should contact your school/college.
For issues accessing your college email, please contact IT Support on 01635 845244.
How are my grades calculated?
This year, students will sit exams, but the Department for Education recognises they have faced disruption over the last two years and there will be a number of adaptations for this year’s exams to ensure fairness for students. Exams in 2023 – everything you need to know - The Education Hub (blog.gov.uk)
What do my grades mean?
The grading system for GCSEs changed in 2017. Please see the chart below to compare the new grades against the previous scale.
What if my grades are not what I expected?
Your actual grades may be higher or lower than you expected. It is important to understand how this might affect your choices and your options. Whether you have just missed the mark or exceeded your expectations, there are many ways to access your chosen career through further and higher education. Please arrange a 1:1 with a member of our careers team to discuss your options, or call us on 01635 845000.
The Anna Freud Centre offers free webinars to all parents and carers of children in Year 11 and Year 13 who receive their exam results this summer. The webinars provide parents and carers with strategies to support young people waiting on their results and tips to manage their own wellbeing during this time.
Appealing results
If you are concerned that a grade you have received at Newbury College is wrong, our pdf Assessment Appeals Procedure (338 KB) provides information on how to appeal. Please read this carefully, so you are aware of the grounds required to appeal; complete the document Appeal Request Form (53 KB) and send a copy to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
If you received your grades at school or another provider, please contact them for information on how to appeal.
Going to another college or university?
If your chosen course is with another college or university, you may be able to go through 'clearing'. Clearing is how some universities and colleges fill any places they still have on their courses. Our careers advisers can help you to understand the clearing process.
For more information on clearing, visit the UCAS website.