Students in England, Wales and Northern Ireland received their A Level results on Thursday 15 August 2019. It is always an incredibly emotional time, often filled with elements of pure elation or deep despair.
National figures suggest that this year the proportion of A Level entries awarded an A grade or higher has fallen to the lowest level for more than a decade. Further, the University and College Admissions Service (UCAS) has already said that there is a slight dip in the number of students being accepted on to UK degree courses. Initial UCAS figures show that the total dropped 1% to 408,960.
If you have not achieved the grades you had hoped for you, for whatever reason, you may feel that all of your future plans have now suddenly been thrown into jeopardy. For many, not achieving the grades expected can result in being unable to progress to the next stage of their education.
In such a situation, there remains options that can be explored.
There may be the option to undertake re-sits and that the chosen university agree to defer your place until the following academic year. Students not getting a place at their chosen university may also want to apply for a different course through the UCAS Clearing process. You may also be able to appeal directly to your chosen university.
Alternatively, a student may wish to bring an appeal, for example against the outcomes of post-results services (such as clerical re-checks, reviews of marking and reviews of moderation), against decisions made in cases of malpractice, or in cases relating to access arrangements, reasonable adjustments and special consideration. In these circumstances you may be able to seek redress via the relevant awarding body or through the Joint Council for Qualifications (JCQ), a membership organisation comprising the eight largest providers of qualifications in the UK.
Whichever path you take it is imperative to act quickly and without delay.
HCB Solicitors have a specialist and dedicated team of education lawyers who are able to assist students and discuss their options. To speak to one of our experts please call us on 0333 202 7175.