THE boss of Greater Manchester's Learning and Skills Council has offered words of encouragement to Bury students whose GCSE results didn't meet expectations.

Mr Anthony Goldstone, chairman, has underlined what is available to these students in terms of further education or jobs.

He said: "It's not the end of the world for those whose results were not as good as they expected.

"Whether you have excelled or been disappointed, there are some fantastic opportunities with local employers."

He added: "In addition, there are 130 providers of further education and work-based learning in Greater Manchester who are ready to help through opportunities of further study or to transfer into a job with high quality training.

"Young people wondering about their choices have many local sources of support," stressed Mr Goldstone.

"Their first port of call should be the careers service that provides integrated information, advice, guidance and personal development opportunities for all 13 to 19-year-olds."

Learning and Skills Councils nationwide funds further education college courses and Modern Apprenticeships that offer an alternative option for those who cannot stay on at school.

And from next April, they will also be funding school sixth forms.