Qualifications regulator Ofqual is warning pupils across England, Wales and Northern Ireland that A-level grades are likely to be down this year – and that competition for some courses and universities will be fiercer than ever. It comes after exams were cancelled in 2020 and 2021 because of the coronavirus pandemic and teacher assessment saw an increase in top grades.
At the Collab Group, we believe the positioning of universities as the preferred post-school option needs to change – and change now. Further education (FE) colleges offer students a rich educational and social experience on par with universities and should be showcased as a such.
Additionally, our research shows that students who attend Collab Group member colleges are more likely to complete their course of study, are more likely to develop the essential people skills needed in the future world of work, and are able to quickly secure well-paid work in their chosen field.