Basingstoke MP Maria Miller has praised local students for the hard work that has gone into their A Level and BTEC results, which were released today.
Speaking of students’ achievements Maria Miller said, “The lead up to this summer’s results have been a particularly anxious time for students, parents and teachers.
Students this year have shown particular strength of character given the unprecedented disruption they have experienced as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic.
The way students have been assessed may have changed but recognition of their achievements has not. This group of students has demonstrated a particular resilience and they deserve our congratulations for what they have achieved and all our support in moving forward into their next stage of study or work.”
Local Cllr for Basingstoke South West Stephen Reid also commended students on their achievements,
“Although the normal exam cycle has been disrupted, we must remember that students and their teachers have been working for years to get to this point. Nothing should detract from that.
I hope the students will be able to proceed to the next stage of their lives in line with their original plans.”
The exams watchdog Ofqual subsequently developed a method for calculating grades for A and AS level students, which involved asking schools and colleges to submit students’ predicted grades. Grades took into account students’ coursework, class performance, mock exams and homework.
Students unhappy with their A or AS level grade will have the opportunity to sit an exam in the autumn, or, in certain circumstances, to appeal the grade through their school or college.
Appeals to the exam board should be made through an exams officer, headteacher or principal on behalf of students. Further information on appeals in can be found in Ofqual’s student guide.
The National Careers Service also runs a free Exam Results Helpline for students who want advice on their next steps, including appeals and autumn exams. The helpline will be open from 12-28 August from 8 am to 10 pm, 7 days a week on 0800 100 900.
Appeals will be processed as quickly as possible, while the Government has encouraged universities to hold places open until 7 September, in the event that a student’s place is dependent on a student’s grade and that grade is subject to an appeal.
Some universities may also be able to accept students who take autumn exams onto courses starting in January.
UCAS’ new system for students this summer, Clearing Plus, will also aim to match students to courses based on interest and availability. Applicants can use Clearing Plus if they are unplaced, or if they wish to change their firm choice. They will be sent a personalised set of courses that they could take with the grades they have achieved.
Full information on the Clearing Plus service can be found here: https://www.ucas.com/advisers/guides-and-resources/adviser-news/news/clearing-plus-personalised-way-unplaced-students-find-their-place-clearing.
For more information on exam results, go to: https://dfemedia.blog.gov.uk/2020/08/10/a-level-results-day-your-questions-answered/