Don' t panic over A Level results says UCLan boss

This year’s results have been awarded in unprecedented times..but the message remains the same, don't panic and don't rush into making a decision about Clearing.

Professor Graham Baldwin, vice-chancellor at the University of Central Lancashire says: “There will be plenty of different options available to you, quite often thrilling and new avenues you might not have already contemplated, so take time to consider them all.

It’s also helpful to remember you are not alone, you can speak to lecturers and specialist careers advisers for guidance.

“The key to making the most of Clearing is preparation. If you’ve already applied for a university place, the first thing you need to do is log on to your UCAS track and see if your university of choice has made a decision based on your results.

If you then need to enter Clearing, be ready to start contacting universities as soon as they open, which can be very early in the morning. Simple things like having a list of names, numbers and websites of universities that you are interested in, as well as all your own details to hand – contact details, grades and so on – will make the process less stressful and a bit faster for you. Keep an open mind – a university that you may not have considered may turn out to be just the right place for you.

“We envisage we will have a number of Clearing places available for well-qualified applicants. We also offer a wide variety of foundation entry degree courses for students who may need an additional preliminary year of study, or for those considering a career change or returning to study.

“Our phone lines are already open for potential applicants to discuss their options and from 6.30am today, we will have a number of advisers available who will speak to people seeking advice on any of the University’s remaining places. You can call our Clearing hotline number on 01772 830777 and also visit our website www.uclan.ac.uk/clearing We will also continue to offer places throughout September.

“In addition, we are staging virtual open days tomorrow and Saturday, August 14 and 15, which will give potential students the chance to get their questions answered and experience a real feel for what it will be like to study at UCLan.

“We have also just launched a series of daily online Clearing chat events through our website which will give people the chance to discuss their options live with staff and current students. These will run on selected dates throughout August between 3pm and 5pm.

“So, if you think UCLan is the university you are interested in then we would love to hear from you but remember to celebrate your achievements, be prepared to discover a host of Clearing options and good luck for the future."