University of Portsmouth says it will be as 'flexible as possible' as government urges for places to be held open

However, University of Portsmouth chiefs have not gone as far as guaranteeing to hold course places for students appealing their grades.

Due to the extenuating circumstances of pupils not sitting their A-level exams, the government had urged universities, where possible, to hold open places while students appeal results.

With students unable to to sit their exams, grades have been calculated based on a combination of teacher predictions and the recent academic performance of schools and colleges. Concerns have been raised this may lead to students and colleges feeling the grades they have received are not accurate.

The appeals process is expected to be completed by September 7, allowing students who get improved grades to take up places this autumn.

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Universities minister, Michelle Donelan, said: ‘Nobody should have to put their future on hold because of the virus. Where you are aware that a student's grade may change as the result of an appeal, I would encourage you, where possible, to hold their place until they receive the result of that appeal.’

Responding to the situation a university spokesman said: ‘We expect the vast majority of A-level grades to be fair and accurate. The university will be as flexible as possible and we encourage students to contact our clearing team.

‘The university also accepts other qualifications and relevant professional experience on many of our courses.

‘The university will be active in clearing to give students, whatever their background, the opportunity to benefit from its outstanding education and be part of a successful community of students and graduates.’’

Concerns have been highlighted after the Scottish government performed a U turn and reinstated teacher-predicted grades for 75,000 students who had their predictions downgraded by the standardisation process.

Students wishing to discuss their course options with the University of Portsmouth can do so by calling its clearing team on 023 9284 8081 or through the university’s website.

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