Key Summary
- More than 880,000 A and AS-Level results and 221,000 vocational and technical qualification (VTQ) grades have been issued across England.
- UCAS figures reveal a record 262,820 UK 18-year-olds have been accepted into university or college, up 3% from last year.
- CCA urged students heading to university to book their free MenB vaccination.
More than 880,000 A and AS-Level results have been issued on Thursday (13) to students across England, alongside another 221,000 results for vocational and technical qualifications (VTQs).
In total, over 1.1 million Level 3 qualification results were awarded, marking a key milestone for young people moving on to higher education, apprenticeships, or direct employment.
Overall A-Level outcomes have remained stable this year, with minor variations in results largely attributed to changes in subject entry patterns across the country.
Meanwhile, T-Levels have seen increased student uptake as these technical pathways become more established and expand into additional subject areas.
The proportion of students in England gaining the highest grade of A* in A-level subjects rose to 9.7%, up from 9.4% last year, setting a new record outside the pandemic era, when exams were scrapped, according to Guardian.
Northern Ireland was the best-performing country, with 30.7% of grades being As and A*s, followed by 29.6% in Wales and 28.7% in England.
According to UCAS, figures published for Level 3 Results Day (13 August) show a record 262,820 UK 18-year-olds have been accepted compared with 255,130 last year (+3%).
Dr Jo Saxton CBE, UCAS Chief Executive, said: “Today’s school leavers were just starting secondary school when the pandemic interrupted their education. Given the significant disruption they faced at such a formative stage of their learning, it is wonderful to see so many young people getting a place at university or college. I’m delighted to see them backing themselves and choosing to invest in their education.
“For those who haven’t got the grades they need, are reconsidering their plans, or haven’t applied yet but are thinking of doing so, I’d encourage them to explore the wide range of choices on offer in Clearing – with over 26,000 courses available there are plenty of options. UCAS’ dedicated advisers are also here to offer support on the phones, social media or via the UCAS website.”
MenB vaccinations
Meanwhile, the Company Chemists’ Association has urged the students to complete their MenB vaccination course before they start their university.
Chief Executive Malcolm Harrison said: “A-level results day marks the start of an exciting new chapter for thousands of young people. But preparing for university isn’t just about accommodation and packing.
“Eligible students should make sure that booking their free MenB vaccination from their local community pharmacy is also on their checklist.
“Meningitis can become life-threatening very quickly, and students are at increased risk as they meet new people and move into shared accommodation.
“Two doses are needed, at least four weeks apart, so eligible young people should book their first vaccination as soon as possible. This will help ensure they’re protected when they start university and for several years to come.”
