Mary congratulates students on A Level results

Wakefield MP Mary Creagh has congratulated the district’s A-level students on their fantastic results which were released on Thursday 19 August.  She also welcomed news that increased numbers of pupils are passing A-levels in key subjects like Science and Maths, but warned that many Wakefield students hoping to go to university this year could face disappointment because of government cuts to university places.

Mary Creagh said “I want to congratulate all our students in Wakefield who achieved excellent A-Level results again this year.  The results are a credit to the staff and students at our first class schools, sixth forms and colleges across the district.

There are over 1000 more Wakefield students going to university than there were in 1997.  This year there could be a problem though as the Tory government has cancelled our plans to make 10,000 extra uni places available. Some university courses are already full and there will be a much reduced clearing system this year.  I hope everyone from Wakefield who wants to go to uni gets a place, but it’s important students know where to go for advice if they have any problems.”

Students who are worried about whether their grades will get them into university this year can get more information about the clearing system at www.ucas.com. The Joint Council for Qualifications can also offer advice http://www.jcq.org.uk/faqs/results 

Next steps for students

• Students needing help applying through Clearing or with a query about their application can contact the UCAS helpline on 0871 468 0468.

• The BBC exam results helpline on 0808 100 8000 offers expert, independent information and advice on applying for university or college, taking time out or choosing to enter employment. The helpline is funded and supported by the DCSF, UCAS, Connexions, the Careers Service, Careers Scotland and the Scottish Qualifications Authority

• For information on student finance, visit www.direct.gov.uk/studentfinance, or call the Student Loans Company direct on 0845 300 50 90 for one to one advice.

• There is now also a page on DirectGov that brings together all advice for school, college and university leavers in one place. Visit http://whatsnext.direct.gov.uk/ for more details.