Thousands of teenagers across the region will today start taking the next steps in their lives after collecting their A-level results.

Many students will log into the online tracker system of the university admissions service Ucas at 8am to see whether they have been accepted.

For students who are disappointed, as well as those trying to enter university a year earlier than planned, before the student maintenance grant is scrapped in 2016, the Ucas clearing system will be the next port of call.

For those who are unsure about what to do next, Norfolk County Council recommended the free Future You app, which helps match students' skills and interests with jobs and courses.

Last year, the national A-level pass rate fell slightly - the first dip in 32 years - but Norfolk bucked the trend, with 75pc of A-level entries at high schools graded A*-C, compared to 72pc in 2013.

In a message to students, James Joyce, chairman of the council's Children's Services Committee, said: 'Remember this is just a step on the journey – not the final destination.

'Here at Norfolk County Council we've got our fingers crossed for you too - as we hope even more young people will benefit from the excellent education being provided in increasing numbers of the county's schools and academies this year.'

He also reminded students they can phone a careers advisor at the National Careers Service from 8am to 10pm on 0800 100 900.

Do you have an education story? Email martin.george@archant.co.uk