As Year 13 students move into the final phase of their A Levels, it is natural for both students and parents to have questions about what lies ahead. In our recent webinar, Kirsten Dickers (Head of Sixth Form) and Gemma Hannan (Deputy Principal) shared clear guidance on exam preparation, university decision making, and what happens on results day.
In the lead up to exams, our priority is to ensure students remain in lessons for as long as possible, benefiting from expert subject teaching. Many of our teachers are experienced examiners who understand how to study strategically and maximise performance.
Students attend lessons each morning, with optional afternoon sessions structured as focused revision clinics. For students who need additional help in specific subjects, one to one and small group support continues right up until their final exam. This approach allows teaching to be tailored to individual needs while maintaining structure and routine.
Parents are encouraged to contact the college if they feel their child would benefit from extra support. We work closely as a team around each student to build confidence and readiness.
Students are reminded to keep a close eye on UCAS deadlines, as these depend on when final university decisions are received. Missing a UCAS reply deadline can result in offers being declined automatically, so students are encouraged to check their UCAS account regularly and ask for guidance if unsure.
When accepting offers, students must choose one firm and one insurance option. The firm choice should be the university they most want to attend, while the insurance choice acts as a safety net. Once a firm offer is met or accepted on results day, the insurance choice is no longer available, which makes careful decision making essential.
Students considering dropping an A Level subject must always check with their universities first. Any changes to qualifications listed on UCAS must be approved and formally updated to avoid complications later.
Universities may contact students directly to request additional documents. These can include GCSE certificates, IELTS results, ATAS clearance for certain science and technology courses, or police checks for courses involving children or patients.
It is important to note that universities contact students directly, not parents or schools. Students must therefore check their emails and applicant portals regularly and seek support if they are unsure how to respond.
A Level results day takes place on Thursday 13 August. From 8am UK time, students can access their results via the student portal and check UCAS to see whether their university place has been confirmed.
A dedicated team of staff will be available throughout the day to support students by phone, email and online meetings. Universities usually receive results in advance, which means decisions are often already in place by the time students log in.
If a student meets their firm offer, their place becomes unconditional and the university will contact them with next steps, including issuing a CAS for visa applications where required. If results fall short, universities may still accept students, offer an alternative course, or move them to their insurance choice.
Clearing is a UK wide system that allows students to find university places if they do not hold an offer or decide they want to explore other options. Clearing is not a negative outcome. In recent years, students have secured places at highly competitive universities and on selective courses through Clearing.
Students must contact universities themselves through Clearing, although college staff are available to advise and support throughout the process.
Once exams conclude, students take part in a range of end of year celebrations including trips, performances, Sports Day, the Graduation Prom and the Graduation Ceremony. These events recognise the hard work and achievements of our Year 13 students and mark an important transition into the next stage of their lives.
We look forward to supporting every student through exams, results day and beyond.
Watch the full webinar on demand:
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