DON'T panic, seek informed advice and make a considered decision about your future. That is the message from Birmingham's most senior education executive to those young people crestfallen about today's A-level results.
It is for sure that there will be many disappointments - it happens every year - but those students whose grades aren't as good as hoped for should put it behind them and look positively to the future.
Tony Howell, the city's strategic director of learning and culture, has seen it all before, but knows that below par results can be overcome and it is still possible for unhappy youngsters to gain a place at the university of their choice. Even if that is not so, they can still find courses at alternative universities, opening the way to good degree prospects and successful careers thereafter.
"There are many people to help during this difficult, but not insurmountable period," said Mr Howell.
"Consult staff at your school, because they will be able to provide the right information on the best course of action and they will know what to do.
"There is still a case for speaking to your original preference university or college, to see if there is anything they can do.
"Young people in this position need to seek help as quickly as possible, without panicking and doing the wrong thing.
"Get in touch with other universities and UCAS to see what alternative courses are available and to seek further advice." Mr Howell emphasised that course information can be found on the websites of universities and UCAS.
Additionally, national newspapers, such as the Independent, the Guardian, the Times, the Telegraph and the Mirror, also provide details.
"Many young people find places on alternative degree courses, or a foundation course which can lead into a university course the next year."
There is more than one way to get round the problem of A-level results being below expectations. Look at re-sitting the exams, or take different subjects at an FE college.
