Joyce Johnson of the council’s progress team talks about her role in helping students make decisions about their next steps on results day – and how there’s always a backup option when things don’t go to plan

The progress team provides support for 16-to-18-year-olds in Islington around education, work experience, traineeships, apprenticeships or employment up to the end of Year 13. We help them make informed choices, all starting with their interests and aspirations. Advisers can also assist with things such as college or job applications, CV writing and mock interviews, particularly for people who are not currently in education, employment or training – or those at risk of being in that situation.

Many of the young people I support come from disadvantaged backgrounds. They might have missed out on taking their GCSEs or meeting the entry requirements for their desired courses. However, there is always something that can be done to help them fulfil their potential and we can guide them in finding that starting point. If you don’t achieve your predicted grades, it’s only natural to feel disappointed, but we can help to either find a backup option, or the next best opportunity available to them.

A-level results day is Thursday 18 August and GCSE results day is Thursday 25 August. Check your school’s website to find out how results will be issued. The progress team will be available for support on both days: email them at progress@islington.gov.uk or call 020 7527 7031