TODAY'S A-Level results being received by students in the North-East will show more than just grades and could determine young people's future employability.

Employer research undertaken by the Learning and Skills Council (LSC) shows that close to three quarters or 74 per cent of recruiters think it is vital for job-seekers to have at least two A-Level grades or a vocational equivalent before entering the workplace.

In fact, one in seven, or 14 per cent, of employers would not recruit someone if they had less than two A-Level grades (A-C) or the vocational equivalent and a further one in ten, or 11 per cent, would ignore their CV from the outset.

Half, 47 per cent, of employers believe the situation will worsen for existing job applicants looking for a job in 2013, when the compulsory participation age is raised to aged 17 and they will be competing with better skilled youngsters.

Currently less than half of young people gain two A-Levels or the vocational equivalent by age 19 - and although close to eight in ten employers or 79 per cent said they might hire someone who doesn't have these qualifications, the majority of recruiters, or 56 per cent, said they would only recruit them for low or unskilled jobs - often on a low wage with limited prospects.

The Learning and Skills Council is today urging young people to look at all the options open to them - such as a work-based learning programme, enrolling on an Apprenticeship, attending college or accepting a job with training opportunities.

Chris Roberts, Regional Director, LSC North East, said: "This research shows how important having skills and gaining qualifications is in today's job market.

"If you've received your A-Levels today well done for your hard work but if you haven't got the grades you wanted then don't worry and don't give up on learning.

"There are lots of learning options open to you and you could be eligible for funding through the Adult Learning Grant (ALG).

"There are also many job opportunities available which include excellent training schemes, which can be just as beneficial as remaining in full-time learning.

"It is important to remember that your career will benefit greatly from having at least two A-Levels or the vocational equivalent such as a NVQ Level 3 or an Advanced Apprenticeship.

"Taking your future in your own hands and gaining skills will improve your prospects for promotion up the career ladder, increase your salary and better prepare you for working life, whatever career you choose."