Class of 2026 - Employer Messages

Class of 2026: Results Day Campaign & Employer Messages

As Results Day approaches, we’re launching a campaign to uplift and empower the Class of 2026. This is a pivotal moment for young people, and we want to ensure they feel supported, inspired, and confident—regardless of the grades they receive.

Starting a week before A Level Results Day, we’ll spotlight a different theme that reflects the values and insights shared by employers across our region. These messages will help students understand that success comes in many forms and that their future is full of possibilities.

 

🌟Employers Value Attitude Over Grades

What do employers really look for in young talent? Teamwork, problem-solving, positivity, these traits matter most.

Steve Austins, Co-Founder & Creative Director, Bengo Media

“A massive congratulations to all Cardiff students today. Getting your results is a huge milestone, but it is just one chapter. In the podcasting and media world, your knowledge of a textbook is less important than whether you can ask a great question, tell a brilliant story, and solve problems on the fly. Curiosity and a great attitude are what matter. If today went to plan, then congratulations - keep creating, keep asking questions. But if today was a disappointment for you, remember that resilience is a highly sought-after workplace skill. Keep your head up and keep pushing forward.”

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Nick Payne, Managing Director, S.A.Brain

“As a Managing Director, I will always look at a CV to understand someone's journey. I'm interested in the breadth of their experience, how they've applied themselves in previous roles, whether they've developed within those roles, and whether they've pushed themselves beyond what was expected.

But qualifications and experience only tell part of the story.

What really interests me is the person behind the CV. What has driven them to get where they are today? Are they motivated to learn and improve? Do they take ownership of their development? What challenges have they overcome along the way?

The candidates who stand out to me are those who have a growth mindset. They are constantly learning, humble enough to know they don't have all the answers, but confident enough to seek support and learn from others. In fact, some of the best leaders I've worked with are those who never stopped asking questions.

More than anything, I look for a positive, can-do attitude. I value people who are self-motivated, resilient, and able to find solutions when faced with problems. Life and business will always present challenges, so the ability to navigate adversity and keep moving forward is incredibly important.

Equally, I look for good people—those with strong values who are willing to support others. Success is rarely an individual achievement. The strongest teams are built on trust, collaboration, and a shared desire to help one another succeed.

Grades may open doors, but attitude, character, and determination are often what keep them open. Those qualities will take you much further than any exam result ever could.” 

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Steve Borely, Managing Director, CMB Engineering

"At CMB, we value potential over perfect results – because success isn't defined by one day, one grade or one exam.

For many, Results Day will be a time of celebration. For others, the grades they receive may not reflect the effort they've put in. If today hasn't gone the way you hoped, remember that employers like us recruit people, not grades.

Our £100 million family-run business was built from the ground up by apprentices, non-graduates and people who simply refused to give up. When we recruit, we're looking for far more than qualifications - we value character, determination, work ethic and a dare to dream.

Yes, results matter - but they're only one part of the picture. Your attitude, resilience and the choices you make next will have the greatest impact on where life takes you.

Back yourself. Your future is much bigger than one set of results." 

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Courtney Parry, Recruitment and Community Development Supervisor, Right at Home UK

“Firstly, congratulations! You made it!! Your hard work, dedication and commitment to your courses are true testament to your character and determination to further your skills and better your future.

 Although it’s exciting, for some, I’m sure you’re nervous about the prospect of not receiving the results you wanted. We, at Right at Home, are here to tell you… don’t be too hard on yourself! Grades certainly DO NOT define you. We have many staff members, that did not receive the grades they desired, it hasn’t stopped them exceeding and securing a fantastic job for themselves.

 Employers really do value your attitude and dedication over grades. The fact that you have committed to something, pushing and challenging yourselves says so much about you and your work ethic already. Your dedication is something that we strive to find in our employees. These results do not define you or the careers you are going to have.

Whatever your grade, today is a success and a huge milestone for you all. You should be very proud of yourselves. We are! We hope you take time to celebrate your success, whatever your result!” 

 

🚀 There’s More Than One Path to Success

Insights into alternative routes into employment—apprenticeships, traineeships, internships, and more. Opportunities will be promoted via https://www.whatsnextcardiff.co.uk.

Pinelopi, Outreach Champion, Companies House

“I just wanted to say that whatever results you receive, remember that they are only one step in your journey. I went to study Political Science at university and expected my career to follow a particular path, but life took an unexpected turn and I found myself building a new life in another country.

I worked hard for good grades, but what surprised me most was that employers didn't always ask about them during interviews. Several managers told me they chose me because of my personality, attitude, and the way I worked with others. That taught me an important lesson: qualifications matter, but so do skills such as resilience, communication, teamwork, and a positive attitude.

Be proud of your achievements, whatever your results. There are many routes to success, and opportunities can come from places you never expected.”

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Lauren Jones, Talent Acquisition Manager, Aro

“A huge congratulations to everyone receiving their results.

We’re keeping our fingers crossed that you’ve got the results you were hoping for. If so, enjoy the moment and celebrate your hard work. If things haven’t quite gone to plan, remember that your grades don’t define you or your future.

 At ARO Technology, we know that success comes in many forms and there are lots of ways to get to where you want to go– whether that’s through further study, apprenticeships, training or building experience along the way. What matters most is your attitude, willingness to learn and determination to keep moving forward.

Whatever your results, be proud of what you’ve achieved. We’re wishing you lots of luck with your next steps.”

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Debbie Jarman, HR & LD Manager, Park Plaza Hotel

“At Park Plaza, we believe that every young person has the potential to succeed, and Results Day is just the beginning of their journey. While grades are an important achievement, they do not define the skills, passion, resilience, and attitude that employers value.

Hospitality is a career full of opportunity, with many different pathways and roles to explore. At Park Plaza, we offer a range of routes into the industry, including apprenticeships, graduate programmes, and opportunities to gain valuable experience while developing your skills. From guest services and food and beverage to events, finance, marketing, and operations, hospitality offers a variety of departments where people can build rewarding careers.

 Whatever your results, remember that there is more than one path to success. Stay curious, believe in your abilities, and take the next step with confidence. We wish all Cardiff students the very best for their future.”

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CSgt Jason Davies, Army Careers Advisor, Ministry of Defence

“Hello all. Results Day is important, but it does not define your future. In the Army, we see young people from a wide range of educational backgrounds go on to achieve great things. While qualifications can open doors, like becoming a future military leader after training at The Royal Military Academy Sandhurst or taking on a trade in one of or Corps, what often matters most is attitude, determination, resilience, teamwork and a willingness to learn. There is more than one path to success, whether through further education, apprenticeships, vocational training, or employment. If your results are not what you hoped for, don't lose confidence. Take time to explore the opportunities available to you, seek advice, and focus on the skills and strengths you can bring. Your next step could be the start of something bigger than you imagined. Our doors are always open at the Armed Forces Carriers Office for young people to pop in or make an appointment to speak to an experienced solider”. (You’ll be surprised of what the military can offer)!”

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Claire Griffiths, Associate Director, Pentan Architects

“As students across Cardiff and beyond receive their results today, we want to reassure young people that, while examination results are important, they do not define either a successful career or a fulfilling life.

Many highly successful professionals did not achieve the grades they had hoped for when they left school. Their achievements have been shaped not only by academic attainment, but by the resilience, determination and skills they have developed throughout their lives and careers. Attributes such as teamwork, problem-solving, adaptability and a positive attitude are highly valued by employers and can often be just as important as qualifications alone.

It is also important to remember that there is no single route to success. Career journeys are rarely linear, and reaching your chosen profession does not always involve taking the most direct path. Many people discover opportunities and career options they had never previously considered, sometimes through experiences and opportunities that arise unexpectedly. In reality, many of us do not end up pursuing the career we imagined for ourselves when we left school yet still go on to find rewarding and successful careers.

Apprenticeships, further education, vocational qualifications and a range of other pathways provide valuable opportunities to build skills, gain experience and progress into a wide variety of professions.

We also recognise that results day can be an especially stressful and emotional time for students and their families. Support is available for anyone who needs it, and no one should feel they have to face today's outcomes alone.

To every student receiving results today: whatever your results, they are only one chapter in a much longer story. Your future remains full of opportunities, and there are many different paths that can lead to success, fulfilment and happiness.”

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Sarah Wason, Communications Manager, Rio Architects

“Results day might feel like a defining moment right now. But whatever happens, don’t panic. If things haven't gone to plan, there are still plenty of opportunities for you.

Qualifications can be great; they can open doors. But that’s not all employers look for. They’ll be looking for qualities like curiosity, resilience, teamwork, communication, and a willingness to learn which can’t be graded on a piece of paper.

In the built environment, there are plenty of routes into a career, whether that’s through further education, university, an apprenticeship, or workplace experience. Not sure what you want to do yet? Try different things that interest you. Very few people’s journey is a straight line.

Take time to explore what options are available to you, ask for advice, and don’t be afraid to ask as many questions as you need to keep moving forward. Always keep moving forward – you’ve got this.”

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Ruth Gingell, Business Development Manager, Blake Morgan LLP

“Results day can bring a mix of excitement and nerves, speaking from experience. Although it’s easy to focus on the grades you achieve, try to focus on the journey your education has taken you on.

I like to remember that there is more than one path to success. My own journey is proof of that. Instead of following the traditional university route, like I had planned, I chose a Paralegal Apprenticeship. The apprenticeship has given me an ample number of opportunities to learn new skills, whilst also working towards my qualification. Even though my journey into law has not been that ‘traditional’ route, it has only brought me positive experiences and a newfound confidence in myself. I am glad that I was able to do the apprenticeship and will continue to champion this alternative route into law.

Whether you achieve the grades you hoped for or not, stay open to different opportunities as this is usually where the most growth happens.” 

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Mahesh Dilhan, Chief Growth Officer, DynamicX

“Congratulations on Results Day! 🎉

You might get those grades you thought you would, or some you didn't, but don't forget that this is just a small part of the big picture. Results are what you're rewarded for your effort, not potential, creativity, or what you can do.

Social value and contribution to our local community is a key priority at Dynamic X. We know there is no one single route to success and are really dedicated to young people's entry into the world of work. Whether it is giving you advice, putting your hands on the wheel, or helping you find a job, we're here to help you develop a future you can look forward to.

Continue to learn, continue to be curious, continue to take action. We're cheering you on, all the way!”

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Caroline Ryan, Reaching Wider Officer, Reaching Wider

“To everyone receiving their GCSE, AS, or A-Level results this summer, congratulations on reaching this important milestone.

At Reaching Wider, we know that results day can bring excitement, relief, uncertainty, or a mixture of all three. Whatever your results, remember that grades are only one part of your story. Your determination, resilience, curiosity, and willingness to keep learning are just as important.

There is no single route to success. Whether you are progressing to sixth form, college, university, an apprenticeship, training, or exploring other opportunities, there are many pathways that can help you achieve your goals. If things have not gone quite as planned, support is available, and there are still plenty of options open to you.

Take time to celebrate how far you have come, be proud of your efforts, and look forward with confidence. Your future is full of possibilities, and we wish you every success in the next stage of your journey.

#ResultsDay #YourFutureYourWay #ReachingWider #CardiffCommitment” 

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Nick Payne, Managing Director, S.A.Brain

“Success rarely follows a straight line. While university can be the right route for some, there are many other pathways that can lead to a rewarding and successful career, including apprenticeships, traineeships, internships, vocational qualifications, and entry-level roles.

Many of today’s business leaders didn't start at the top. They began in junior positions, learning the fundamentals of their industry and gaining first-hand experience of how a business operates. Building that breadth and depth of knowledge from the ground up provides invaluable insight that simply can't be taught in a classroom.

As your career develops, you'll have opportunities to work across different departments, learn from a variety of leaders, and discover where your strengths and passions lie. Every role, no matter how small it may seem at the time, teaches you something that helps shape your future success.

In my own experience, the most successful people are often those who remain curious, embrace new challenges, and are willing to keep learning. Career progression isn't always about taking the quickest route—it's about building capability, earning trust, and developing the skills needed to make a meaningful impact.

Whether you start through an apprenticeship, a trainee scheme, a college course, or an entry-level position, every pathway can lead to opportunity. The key is to be open-minded, work hard, and make the most of every experience along the way.

You never know where that first step might take you. One day, it could even put you in a position to help lead and shape the future of the business you work for.”

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Joanne O’Keefe, Community Benefits Co-Ordinator, Sacyr UK 

“If someone had told me at 16 that I'd end up working in the construction industry, I would never have believed them. Back then, I didn't think it was a career for me at all!

The truth is career paths are rarely straightforward. Most people change their minds, discover new interests and take opportunities they never expected. Being open to change is a real strength.

If you're unsure about what to do after school or college, that's completely normal. Construction could be worth considering, even if you've never thought about it before. There are over 200 different roles in the industry, and many aren't what people traditionally imagine. Alongside trade roles like plumbing, electrical work and engineering, there are careers in design, finance, administration, project management and more.

One of the great things about construction is the variety of routes into the industry. Apprenticeships allow you to gain recognised qualifications while earning a salary, and opportunities exist in both site-based and office-based roles. Some careers, such as architecture or surveying, may require a degree, but there is a pathway for all interests and skill sets.

Work experience can also be a great starting point. It helps you develop skills, build confidence and make valuable connections that could lead to future opportunities.

My advice? Talk to people, ask questions and be open to new experiences. You don't need to have your future mapped out at 16. Sometimes the opportunities you least expect can lead to a career you love.”

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Caryn Grimes, Regional Skills Partnership Manager, Cardiff Capital Region.  

“To everyone receiving their results this summer, take a moment to recognise just how far you have come. Your results are an important achievement, but they do not define your potential, your ambition, or your future.

Whatever your next step, whether that's university, college, an apprenticeship, employment, entrepreneurship, or taking time to explore your options, there are many routes to a successful and fulfilling career. Some of the most inspiring journeys are rarely straightforward, and every experience along the way helps shape who you become.

Across the Cardiff Capital Region, we see firsthand the talent, resilience and creativity of young people. The skills, determination and adaptability you have developed will be invaluable as you move forward into an exciting and rapidly changing world of work.

 Be proud of what you have achieved, believe in yourself, and embrace the opportunities ahead. Your future is full of possibilities, and this is only the beginning of your story.”

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Ella Williams, Trainee Paralegal, Blake Morgan LLP

“This time last year, I was collecting my own GCSE results, and fast forward 1-year, I am now working at Blake Morgan LLP as a Paralegal Apprentice. There are now so many routes that you can take to go into a multitude of different industries. For example, I had always assumed that university was the only option to pursue a career in law, but that isn’t the case. I didn’t achieve my apprenticeship on the back of my GSCE exam results, but because I attended a work experience scheme at Blake Morgan LLP in July 2025 called Growing Ambitions. My advice would be, take on any opportunity which comes your way, as you never know what it can lead to.”

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💡Grades Don’t Define You – Skills Do

Stories of success from employees who didn’t get the grades they expected but thrived thanks to their skills, attitude, and determination.

 Gabe Taylor, Communications and Engagement Officer, Pedal Power

“Firstly, congratulations from Pedal Power on reaching this important milestone! We know that waiting for exam results can be stressful, and for sure they are important, being the culmination of months (and years) of hard work! But equally, they’re just the start of your story, and it may be good to know that for organisations like us at Pedal Power, the qualities we most value in the young people who work or volunteer with us, are things like being kind and open-minded, able to communicate with people, a hunger to learn new skills and work as part of a team. So, if you achieve the results you were hoping for – congratulations! And if not, don’t allow it to derail your hopes and dreams.

If you would like to learn new skills through volunteering at Pedal Power, please email Helen at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.”

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Louis, Associate Director, AtkinsRéalis

Results matter, but they don't define you.

“When I received my A-level results they weren't what I'd hoped for. I achieved a D and an E and only made it to university through a foundation route while many of my peers went directly onto degree courses. At the time it felt like a setback.

Fast forward 10 years in the industry and I'm now an Associate Director at a global construction consultancy, leading a team of 45 project management professionals across Wales and the South West.

The biggest drivers for my journey weren't grades. They were my attitude, willingness to learn, resilience when things didn't go to plan, and the support of brilliant mentors who believed in me and challenged me to be the best version of myself.

Whatever your results, please know that there is more than one path to success. Stay curious, work hard, be open to receiving feedback good and bad, and keep moving forward. You'll smash it.”

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Nicky Punter, People Resourcing Manager, Cardiff and Vale University Health Board

“Results Day 2026: Encouragement and Career Opportunities from Cardiff and Vale UHB

To everyone receiving their results this summer, congratulations on reaching this important milestone. Whatever your results, remember that there are many different pathways to a successful and rewarding career. At Cardiff and Vale University Health Board, we see every day how determination, resilience, a positive attitude, and a willingness to learn can be just as valuable as exam grades. With more than 350 different careers available across the NHS, there are opportunities to suit a wide range of interests, skills, and talents. Be proud of what you have achieved, explore the opportunities available to you, and keep an open mind about your next steps. Your future is full of possibilities. Best of luck from everyone at Cardiff and Vale UHB.”

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Emma Banfield, Project Manager, Inspiring Skills Excellence, Coleg Sîr Gar

“Grades are only one step of your journey - At Inspiring Skills Excellence in Wales, we believe every young person has unique strengths and the potential to succeed. Wales needs future-ready people with creativity, resilience, teamwork, communication, and problem-solving skills, qualities that are developed through learning, experience, and determination, not exam results alone.

Whether your next step is sixth form, college, an apprenticeship, training, university, or employment, there are many routes to a rewarding future. Keep an open mind, seek advice if you need it, and remember that your skills, ambition, and willingness to learn will help shape your future. We believe in your potential and look forward to seeing the contribution you'll make to Wales's future.”

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Louise Morgan, Founder and Director, TMPR

“Whatever your results are today, remember this marks the next exciting chapter of your life. Academic results don’t define your future – you do. Always go forward with a positive outlook as it’s attitude that wins every time in the workplace. The only right path is the one that works best for you – and everyone is different. Skills can be taught in the workplace and there are employers like TMPR out there who are ready to nurture the young people who are ready to learn.”

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Nick Payne, Managing Director, S.A.Brain

“When I left school at 16, I had just four GCSEs and no clear idea of what my future would look like. I went on to study a BTEC National Diploma in Business and Finance, but if I'm honest, I was still figuring things out. What I did have, though, was ambition and a determination to make something of myself.

Over the next few years, I took on a variety of roles—from working on a building site to selling mortgages. Each experience taught me valuable lessons, but it wasn't until I joined a global drinks company at the age of 23 that I found a career path that truly excited me.

One thing became clear very quickly: hard work, resilience, and a positive attitude count for far more than any exam result alone. Throughout my career, I've had the privilege of working with some incredibly intelligent people—leaders in finance, marketing, people development, and FMCG. Yet the qualities that consistently stand out aren't academic achievements.

The people who make the biggest impact are those with strong values, a good moral compass, and a willingness to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in. They care about others, take responsibility, and go the extra mile.

There is very little traffic on that extra mile.

So, if you didn't get the grades you hoped for, don't let that define you. Your future will be shaped far more by your character, determination, and work ethic than by a set of exam results. Work hard, stay humble, and keep moving forward. Anything is possible.”

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🤗 Results Day Support – You’re Not Alone

Signposting essential resources and support services for students during Results Day.

Sharon James-Evans, Principal, Cardiff and Vale College

"As many of you receive your GCSE results today it’s important to remember that whatever the outcome, there are so many exciting opportunities that await you. Grades are just a snapshot of what you’re capable of achieving and they don’t define you and your future. At Cardiff and Vale College, we focus on building your skills and belief in your ability to find the right path for you to thrive. From career focused courses to A levels or Apprenticeships, there are many different routes to reaching your ambitions. We are here to support you. Whatever your grades, whatever your goals, there’s a place for you at CAVC."

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Izzy Driscoll, HR Advisor, Qallp

“To all GCSE and A Level students awaiting your results, remember that your grades are only one part of your story. As an employer, we know that success comes in many forms and there is no single route to a rewarding career.

Whether your results are exactly what you hoped for or not, there are countless opportunities ahead, including apprenticeships, further education, training programmes and employment pathways. What matters most is your attitude, resilience, willingness to learn and determination to keep moving forward.

Be proud of the effort you have put in. Whatever the outcome, do not let one set of results define your potential. Keep believing in yourself, stay open to new opportunities, and remember that many successful careers begin in unexpected ways. Your future is full of possibilities.”

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Nick Payne, Managing Director, S.A.Brain

“Results day can bring a mix of emotions, excitement, relief, uncertainty, or disappointment. Whatever your results, remember that they do not define your future or your potential.

If things haven't gone as planned, don't keep it to yourself. Share your results and your thoughts with those closest to you. Talk to your family, friends, teachers, mentors, or careers advisers. There is support available, and many people have faced exactly the same situation before.

It's important to remember that this is not the end of your journey, it's only the beginning. The path ahead may look different from the one you had imagined, but that doesn't mean it can't lead to success. There are many routes into rewarding careers, including apprenticeships, traineeships, college courses, internships, and entry-level roles that can provide invaluable experience and opportunities for growth.

Millions of successful people have experienced setbacks, changed direction, or taken an unexpected route to achieve their goals. What often sets them apart is not their exam results, but their determination, resilience, and willingness to keep moving forward.

If you need advice or support, resources such as https://whatsnextcardiff.co.uk/en/ https://careerswales.gov.wales, https://www.ucas.com, and https://nationalcareers.service.gov.uk offer guidance on the options available to you.

Most importantly, believe in yourself. If you have the desire to succeed, are prepared to work hard, and remain open to learning and new opportunities, you can achieve far more than you may realise today.

Your results are a moment in time. They are not the measure of your future.”

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Rida Mohammad, Project Assistant, Mace

“To everyone receiving their results this year, remember that your grades are only one chapter of your story, not the whole book. Whether your results are exactly what you hoped for or not, they do not define your potential, your character, or your future success. Some of the most rewarding careers are built through different pathways, opportunities, and experiences. Be proud of the effort you've put in, learn from every outcome, and stay open to new possibilities. Believe in yourself, keep moving forward, and remember that success is not determined by a single day, but by the resilience, attitude, and determination you show afterwards. Congratulations and good luck with your next steps.”

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Your results are one part of your story, not the whole picture. 💙 Discover opportunities, get inspired and explore your next steps at www.whatsnextcardiff.co.uk.