Supporting A Level students following grades concerns

This year, A Level results have been decided for the first time by a model developed by Ofqual, the exams regulator, to replace exams cancelled during the lockdown

Following the news that almost 40 per cent of teachers’ recommended grades in England were downgraded, the University of Bolton has instituted a ‘no detriment’ policy for applicants applying for courses.

It will therefore accept the student’s best grades, from any of the following:

  *   School/Colleges predicted grades (submitted as part of UCAS application)
  *   Mock exam grades
  *   Estimated grades submitted by school or college to awarding bodies in light of Covid-19 cancellations
  *   Actual (calculated) grades.

This ‘no detriment’ policy will be applied to all of the University’s courses, including nursing, teacher training,  special and visual effects, gaming, engineering, health, arts, psychology, accountancy, computing and business management.

As a ‘widening participation’ institution, the University of Bolton is particularly concerned that it would appear pupils from disadvantaged backgrounds are more likely to have seen their grades lowered by Ofqual’s algorithm.

Places offered will be subject to applicant submission of evidence, which can be provided in due course by the applicant or applicant’s school/college.

Normal admissions practices will apply, including interviews and other eligibility criteria where necessary for some courses.

We continue to encourage applicants to consider their appeal or resit options available in consultation with their school/college, but today’s move gives reassurance that applicants can continue to take up their place at the University of Bolton regardless of these delays.

Students should contact the University of Bolton on the following number, 0808 281 1111, or www.bolton.ac.uk to explore their options.

This applies to applicants studying a course on-campus only. Applicants for courses with an off-campus partner should contact us for further guidance.

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