Ok, that might have been a long time ago but today in the UK hundreds of thousands of young Gen Z students are getting their A-level, T-level, BTec Nationals, and other Level 3 results today and the usual conversations are taking place about achievements, disappointments, options, and standards. 

Many parents and relatives of youngsters receiving their results today will be reflecting on their own experiences from many years ago. It’s natural to draw parallels – I remember receiving my disappointing results many years ago and wondering what I was going to do next. But that was then…

As I talk to youngsters today it’s important to remember that the landscape is very different from what we faced. The emotions they are experiencing—whether joy, disappointment, or uncertainty—may be familiar, but the context in which they navigate these feelings has evolved significantly.

For us older generations, the pathways following A-levels were more straightforward, and the pressure to follow a traditional route was intense. University was often seen as the primary goal, with fewer alternative options readily available or widely accepted. Today, however, students have a broader range of opportunities at their fingertips, from apprenticeships and gap years to vocational training and online learning platforms.

The support systems have also changed. Schools, universities, and even employers now offer more comprehensive guidance, and mental health awareness is far more prominent. Social media, for all its flaws, can also serve as a supportive community where students share their experiences and encourage one another. How different that was to when I was at that stage of my life!

As older parents and relatives, it’s crucial to understand these differences and not project our own experiences onto our youngsters. The world they are entering is more complex and multifaceted, with opportunities that didn’t exist when we were their age. Our role should be to listen, support, and help them explore the wide array of options available.

Rather than framing our reactions based on how things were “in our day,” let’s focus on empowering our youngsters to make informed decisions that reflect the world they live in today. Their journey is uniquely theirs, and our understanding and support will be invaluable as they navigate this critical moment in their lives.