Published Thursday 20 August 2026 at 16:35
Young people across Blackburn with Darwen are celebrating today as they receive their GCSE results and take the next steps towards their futures.
Schools and colleges across the borough have once again supported students to achieve their best, with many young people now preparing to move on to sixth form, college, apprenticeships, training or employment.
For some, the day is the culmination of years of hard work and a chance to celebrate outstanding achievements. For others, it is an opportunity to explore new possibilities and make decisions about what comes next.
Whatever their results, young people across the borough are being reminded that there are many routes to success and a wealth of opportunities available to help them achieve their ambitions.
Council leaders have praised students for their dedication and resilience and thanked the teachers, school staff, parents and carers who have supported them along the way to get them to this important milestone.
Cllr Julie Gunn, Blackburn with Darwen Council’s Executive Member for Children, Young People and Education, said:
“Congratulations to every young person receiving their GCSE results today. I know there will have been a mix of excitement, relief and perhaps a few nerves as envelopes were opened this morning, but whatever your results, you should be proud of the hard work and determination that brought you to this point.
“Results day is an important milestone, but it is not the only measure of success. Whether your next step is sixth form, college, an apprenticeship, training or employment, there are many opportunities available and many paths to achieving your ambitions.
“I’d also like to thank our dedicated teachers, school staff, parents, carers and families who have supported young people every step of the way. Today is a chance to celebrate their achievements and look forward with confidence to the future.”
A former lecturer at Blackburn College, Cllr Gunn said she understands the importance of keeping options open and encouraging young people to pursue the pathway that is right for them.
Jo Siddle, Strategic Director of Children’s and Education, added: “GCSE results day is a significant moment for young people across Blackburn with Darwen, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another.
“I want to congratulate everyone receiving their results today and recognise the commitment, resilience and effort they have shown throughout their studies. For some, today will bring celebration, while others may be considering different options than they originally planned, and that’s okay.
“There are many routes into successful careers and fulfilling futures. Whether you choose further education, an apprenticeship, training or employment, support is available to help you take your next step.
“I would also like to thank school staff, parents, carers and families for the encouragement and guidance they have given throughout the journey. We wish all our young people every success as they move forward to the exciting opportunities ahead.”
Looking for further support?
For those who are still considering their next steps, support is available through New Directions, Blackburn with Darwen’s careers, education and employment service for young people.
New Directions offers impartial information, advice and guidance on education, training, apprenticeships and employment opportunities. Advisers can help young people understand their options, explore career pathways and access additional support if needed.
Young people and parents who would like advice following results day can contact New Directions by calling 01254 666739, emailing newdirections@blackburn.gov.uk or visiting the service at 10 Duke Street, Blackburn. Further information is available here: www.blackburn.gov.uk