Full credit for your A and AS results; A-Level Special.

AS THE strategic director for Children, Young People and Families I would like to congratulate all pupils in Birmingham for achieving their A-level examination results and for reaching this major milestone.

Achieving A and AS-levels has been the result of two years of intense studying, coursework and a great deal of revision.

Every year the overall standard of A-level achievement goes up in the city. So each and every pupil deserves real credit for their efforts and time-out in August to prepare for a life-changing future.

Everyone who has now completed A and AS-levels is about to go through a period of big personal change. September will not only be the start of a new aca-demiyear, it will be the start of a whole new world.

There are many options available for sixth-form and college leavers, including higher education, vocational learning, employment and even for some the option of a gap year that can include travelling. Whatever you decide, it is vital that you make the decision that best suits you.

The majority of A-level students will now be looking towards a university place this autumn. For some it brings the opportunity to live away from home, taking complete responsibility over their lives for the first time.

This can mean a radical change in environment and relocation to anywhere in the British Isles, which in some cases can even include spending time on a campus abroad.

Others will be considering a university place that allows them to stay nearer to family and friends at locations such as Birmingham City University, Aston University or the University of Birmingham.

You might instead prefer to be earning a wage and be able to manage your own finances immediately.

This will mean entering the world of work, opting for a Modern Apprenticeship or even work-based learning - offering a mix of training, practical work experience and a pay packet at the end of each month.

If you have not achieved the results you wanted, all is not lost! You may need to re-sit examinations, but you can still get to where you want if you stay motivated. For those of you who do not have a clear career path already mapped out, support is available from your school or col-legesixth forms, employers and the Connexions Service who can support you during this important time.

You should be asking as many questions as possible about the options available to ensure you are comfortable and happy with the decisions that you make.

If you are a young person aged 13-19, parent or employer and you have any questions check out www.birmingham.gov.uk/connexions or email [e-mail] or visit one of the seven Connexions centres in Birmingham.

Tony Howell, Strategic Director - Children, Young People and Families, Birmingham City Council