Exam results day: Careers Service offers advice as young people consider next steps

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald is pictured with Justin Kerr, head of the Department for the Economy Careers Service. The Department has 78 careers advisers on hand to support people reach their chosen pathway.

Thursday 13 August 2026

Young people receiving A-Level, AS and vocational results across Northern Ireland today are being reminded that professional careers advice is available to help them decide what comes next.

Whether results have opened the door to a first-choice university course, brought an unexpected outcome or left students unsure about their next move, the Department for the Economy’s Careers Service is offering support to explore the options available.

The advice comes as A-Level, AS and some vocational results are published today, Thursday 13 August, ahead of GCSE results next Thursday, 20 August.

Support whatever the results

Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald congratulated young people receiving their results and encouraged them to consider the range of routes available rather than feeling there is only one path forward.

She said:

“I want every young person to be able to learn and to thrive. There are many options open to you as you begin this exciting new chapter in your lives.

“My Department’s Careers Service is here to support you with these crucial next steps and help you confidently take the path that is right for you.”

For some students, today will confirm plans already made. Others may now be considering different university or college courses, further education, training, apprenticeships or moving directly into employment.

The Careers Service can provide impartial guidance to help young people understand those choices and consider which route best suits their circumstances and ambitions.

Advice on education, training and employment

Head of the Careers Service, Justin Kerr, said advisers have access to current information covering the different pathways available as well as the employment opportunities connected to them.

He explained:

“The Careers Service can help explore a range of pathways, with access to up-to-date labour market information on further education, higher education, training and employment opportunities.

“There is also a wide range of information online to support those conversations and decisions. Students and parents/carers can find information on the nidirect careers website or speak to the Careers Service by calling 0300 200 7820.”

The service is also available to parents and carers who may be helping a young person weigh up their options following their results.

How to get careers advice

Students can speak directly to the Careers Service by telephone on 0300 200 7820.

Webchat is also available through the nidirect Chat with Careers Service facility:

Careers Service Online Chat Service

Telephone and webchat support are available Monday to Friday, from 9.30am until 4.30pm, excluding public holidays.

With GCSE results still to come on 20 August, the support will remain available for young people facing the same decisions next week — and for anyone whose results mean their original plans may now need to change.