DS failed nearly all his GCSEs - advice needed!

[OhFuckWhatNext]

I've name changed for this as I'm a regular poster and feeling quite sensitive right now. I'm hoping some teachers or posters with similar experiences will come along and offer me some advice.

DS unfortunately did really badly in his GCSEs. 2's in maths and English, Fs and Us in everything else, 1 BTEC level 2 pass.

I wasn't expecting him to shine, he's not had a great time at secondary school, been unlucky with teachers, etc. He's also not really put much effort in. However I was expecting maybe Ds and Es.

I've spoke to the sixth form college who were very reassuring and have said to come along on enrolment day
with him and they'll go through all the options. However I'm really worried about him. He's a lovely boy, but his self esteem is pretty low and he's not got much confidence outside of his friendship group.

I just want to do what I am for him and help him find his way.

Take the ps away.

Mum Suggest you start your own thread (and maybe pop over to the Secondary board).

What are his plans for after GCSEs?
What do you currently fund / facilitate for him?
What would you be willing to do if he refuses to attend college?
i.e. What leverage do you have?

Then use it, or not. But be clear on consequences for after GCSEs - no free rides.

DS - my son is in a similar situation and you are not alone.

Certainly not alone,my son has just been put into bottom set(out of four) in maths.
I hate the education system.

(I don't mean any of this in a negative way towards you or your son, he's so lucky to have a mom like you)

Be realistic, your son isn't academic. It's a tough life being pushed onto the GCSE path for years when it's just not the right fit. Imagine failing at everything day after day for years. It's so damaging. I really wish schools helped kids like this. Help your son find a different way, he needs to find who he is. Not who everyone has told him he should be. Once he realises he doesn't have to be like everyone else, he will be much happier. There is a big world out there full of opportunities for him to succeed in. I think apprenticeships could be the way forward for him. For example I saw one advertised locally by the council for a gardener apprenticeship, they do a great job here, lots of appreciation for what they do. Lots of support. A great team. Learning on the job. Good luck to you and your son, once he finds his feet he will be flying.