The Opening of an Envelope

The last two Thursdays, I've attended the opening of an envelope. In fact, quite a number of envelopes as the annual national results days took place at schools and colleges.

Last week I was commissioned to attend Middlesbrough College as students arrived to received their grades: the culmination of A levels, T levels and Level 3 vocational courses. It's always a pleasure to see and capture the positive reactions on display as those involved enter the next chapter of their careers.

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Yesterday, younger pupils were discovering how successful they'd been with their GCSEs. My point of call to witness these bright sparks was Wyvern Academy in Darlington. Once again there was plenty of emotion on show as outcomes were discovered, and even support from the local MP.

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Successful exam results are important, but they don't define a person's future. I myself didn't achieve the grades I hoped for at 16 and 18. And it wasn't until I was in my early twenties that I really developed a passion for photography and was fortunate enough to turn this into a career. I hope those not quite managing expectations in the last two weeks don't lose heart, and find a calling for themselves at a later date.

@mbrocollegenews @WyvernaAcademy @consiliumat @educationgovuk #resultsday #GCSEResults #alevelresults