Thousands of GCSE students in the North East are receiving their results today, in what can be an incredibly nerve-wracking period for teenagers and their families. The grades, which underwent a significant overhaul in England in 2017 when the Conservative government replaced the traditional A* to G system with a 1 to 9 scale, can play a pivotal role in shaping students' next steps - and ultimately influence their future career aspirations.
Unfortunately, Northern Powerhouse Partnership has shared key findings from their analysis of results for 16-year-olds - and the North East remains the lowest-performing English region at Grade 7 and above, at 19%, following a slight fall this year. Pupils at Newcastle High School for Girls (NHSG) are celebrating a 100% pass rate, however, with 63% awarded grades 7-9.
Restaurant Offers to Ease Results Day Anxiety
To help ease some of the 20 August anxiety, a number of restaurants have unveiled special offers enabling pupils to enjoy complimentary food. Whether it's a moment for celebration, commiseration, or simply relief that it's all over, Which? has put together a list of the finest GCSE results day freebies on offer.
Just remember to bring your student ID - and in certain cases proof of your results - to take full advantage of the fantastic deals listed below.
Freebies from Banana Tree to Wildwood
Banana Tree restaurants are offering a free starter and dessert with the purchase of any main course. "Bring your family, bring your friends, because everyone benefits for the freebies!" the chain announces on its website.
Bill's is treating GCSE students to a complimentary dessert with any main course order - provided results are shown to staff. Furthermore, children eat free Monday to Friday all day until 1 September. "Whatever lands on your results slip... dessert's looking pretty good," Bill's states online. "Gather your family and friends to celebrate the milestone."
Frankie and Benny's is treating diners to a complimentary starter and dessert with the purchase of any main meal. Children also eat free until 1 September when accompanied by an adult ordering a main meal.
Las Iguanas is likewise offering a free starter and dessert with every main meal purchased. "Results Day deserves a celebration," a spokesperson states online. "Whether you're celebrating top marks, finishing exams, or simply making memories with your favourite people, we've got the perfect excuse to get together."
Nando's and Wildwood Deals
Nando's is generously offering pupils a complimentary quarter chicken or starter when spending £7 or more. Wildwood offers a free starter or dessert alongside a glass of Coke Zero with the purchase of any main meal.
Prime Minister Andy Burnham has extended his congratulations to students receiving their GCSE results today, while reminding youngsters that exam outcomes aren't the be-all and end-all. "Congratulations to everyone getting their GCSE results today, you should be proud of the work that got you here," he wrote on X. "Whatever your results, remember there isn't just one route to success. We're creating more opportunities for young people to choose the path that's right for them, whether that's academic or technical. Every young person should have the chance to fulfil their potential. I'll make sure they do."
