With A level results being out today, my heart goes with those students who do not get the grades they wanted. Of course, congratulations must go to those who do well, along with best wishes for their continued studies at their chosen university. A level exams are incredibly hard and I do not hold with the view that standards have been dumbed down – maybe a few years ago it seemed that A grades were being handed out like smarties, but this no longer seems to be the case.

But, to those of you whose future plans seem in tatters due to grades not being achieved, please take stock, this is the beginning of your life and there is so much out there that you can do, things that do not require the requisite As and A stars, and although your life may now go in a slightly different direction, you will one day see that this may have happened for a reason.

My lovely son Joey got his results today, but was a little indifferent, as he has been offered an apprenticeship anyway, but we are exceedingly proud of him for achieving two A levels, even though they are not A grades. He is a wonderful chap and will work hard at his new job. That’s all we ask.

My warmest wishes to all of you whatever was in the envelope this morning. You are very special. May you have a truly happy life.

Wendy x