A-level students across England, Wales, and Northern Ireland received their results today, revealing a slight dip in the highest grades. The number of A and A* grades awarded fell by 0.4% compared to 2011, a notable change after years of consistent increases. Despite this, the overall pass rate, encompassing grades A* to E, continued its upward trajectory for the 30th year in a row, reaching an impressive 98%.
This year's results also highlighted shifts in university admissions. Data showed a 7% reduction in the number of students who had already secured their university places prior to results day. Consequently, the university clearing system played a crucial role for many, including a growing number of mature applicants. The London College of Music reported an increase in older candidates using clearing as an opportunity for last-minute university applications, even if they hadn't previously engaged with the UCAS process.
One such individual was 28-year-old John, from Brentford, who chose to pursue a foundation course in music technology after a decade in sales. Having left school without formal qualifications, John highlighted the benefit of gaining life experience before committing to higher education, expressing satisfaction in pursuing a passion rather than a potentially 'useless degree' straight out of school.
Meanwhile, educational institutions reacted to the results. Lodge Park Technology College in Northamptonshire reported a significant increase in A* to B grades, with its headteacher commending the dedication of students, parents, and staff amidst what were described as consistently challenging exams. Similarly, King David High in Liverpool saw its proportion of A and B grades rise by 5% on last year, bucking the national trend.
However, the day was not without controversy. Robin Parker, President of NUS Scotland, voiced strong concerns regarding the impact of tuition fees on university access. He criticised the perceived unfairness of a system where some Scottish universities offered clearing places to students from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland, who face higher fees, while turning away eligible Scottish and EU students. Parker argued this demonstrated the inherent flaws in the current tuition fee structure for students from the rest of the UK, calling for reforms to ensure a fairer system.