As thousands of students await their A-Level results on Thursday 13th August, Bath Spa University has created a ‘top tips’ guide for those who suddenly find themselves looking for a university place.
Despite the negative preconceptions around Clearing, the process can be a good opportunity to find the right course and university, giving students the chance to at other options if things haven’t quite gone to plan.
This year, many prospective university students will be wondering whether Higher Education is the right option for them or worrying that their chosen university hasn’t given them the reassurance they need about safety and their university experience in light of COVID-19.
Professor Sue Rigby, Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa University, said: “Bath Spa University is, at its core, a caring university and we care deeply about the safety and the overall experience our students will have on campus, this year more than ever.
“We also care about the experience students have during the Clearing process, which can be a stressful time, especially if they’re not sure that going to university is right for them this year or if they’re unclear on the process of finding a place.
“Clearing can actually be a fantastic opportunity to discover a wide variety of courses students may not have considered before and they might even find themselves with a better course than they’d expected!
“We encourage anyone who is worried about their results to call our Clearing helpline ahead of results day so we can chat through their options and help them pursue their higher education aspirations.”
Professor Sue Rigby, Vice Chancellor of Bath Spa University
While Clearing is often portrayed to be a daunting and overwhelming experience, with some preparation and open-mindedness, students could end up having a more positive experience than they might have imagined.
Bath Spa University has provided the following top tips on making Clearing as smooth and positive as possible:
- Prepare
Preparation is key when facing the clearing process. You might think you only need to ‘cross that bridge when you get there’ but taking the time to do some research ahead of results day will guarantee a less stressful situation. Look into all the universities that offer the subject you’re interested in ahead of results day so you have plenty of options to choose from. - Start now
Clearing is already open at most universities, so it’s not too early to start looking around to see what courses are available. Click here for a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the application form and browse for different course options at Bath Spa University. - Pick up the phone
Don’t be afraid to talk to a university to see if they have availability in the courses you’re interested in. The helpline staff are there to help you and answer any questions you may have. If it’s Bath Spa University you’ve got your eye on, get in touch with their own clearing helpline on +44 (0)1225 875 550. However, if you would prefer to apply online, they have a simple and straightforward form you can use, right here. - Research all the different options
At Bath Spa University, students can apply for a range of courses through Clearing – from social sciences, to photography, computing, law and teaching. Explore all the different subjects here. What’s more, they will guarantee an offer of accommodation for students that apply through Clearing. - Don’t panic!
It’s hard not to stress, especially as you look ahead to an uncertain future, but the more prepared you are, the less panicked you’ll feel on the day. If you’re stressed about starting universities during these unprecedented times, just remember that all universities have been working tirelessly to ensure the environment is safe for everyone. Bath Spa has taken steps to ensure the safety of students on campus, including adapting workshops, studios, lecture theatres and libraries to maintain social distancing.
Sue Rigby continued: “As a leading creative institution with enterprise at the heart of everything it does, we’ve worked hard to adapt workshops, studios, lecture theatres and social areas to ensure we meet social distancing guidelines and so we can prioritise in-person teaching and activities where possible.
“Some of the subjects our students learn require hands-on experiences, in science labs or in ceramics studios – and we must ensure that this can happen.
“We know COVID is a key concern for students and parents but we want to reassure anyone with an existing place or those going through Clearing that we won’t let it compromise our teaching standards, our university experience or our students’ employability potential.
“The student experience will be different this year, but the challenges and rewards just as great.”
