ASCL responds to government university admissions review

Responding to the Education Secretary’s plan to review the university admissions system, Geoff Barton, General Secretary of the Association of School and College Leaders, said:

“We are pleased that the government intends to consult over a change to the university admissions system.

“Teachers work hard to provide their students with accurate predicted grades but it is not an exact science and never can be.

“A post-qualification admissions system based on actual grades is obviously better and fairer.

“This is a once-in-a-generation opportunity and we hope that the government is not too timid.

“The most radical model would be one in which students would apply only after they have received their A-level and equivalent grades.

“This would necessitate moving the start of the university term to January to allow time for the admissions process.

“But it would put students firmly in the driving seat over the choices they make, and it is important that it is properly considered and not dismissed as being too difficult.”