Partner Article

Are lower A-Level grades good for business?

Today’s A-Level results have called into question how the next generations’ choices will affect businesses, as fewer students achieved A and A* grades, and university applications fell.

Pupils achieving the top tier grade of A* fell by 0.3% and A grades fell by 0.4%, therefore dispelling “grade inflation” theories. These results represent the first drop in top-mark results for 20 years.

North East Chamber of Commerce Policy Advisor, Helen Hayes, said: “I think this will help to restore business confidence in the qualifications following concerns of grade inflation.

“While university represents a progression route for over half of A-level students, the importance of vocational pathways must also be considered.

“Vocational training and employment opportunities need to be promoted alongside university to ensure that young people are fully aware of all their progression options when leaving school.

“With employers attaching greater importance to workplace experience, it is vital young people are aware of the skills and practical experience required to enter the workforce.”

Falls in UCAS applications this year by 7.4% may suggest that A-Level students have already been turned off higher education as a result of increased tuition fees and a struggling economy.

Deloitte’s Jane Boardman, Deloitte’s partner in charge of talent in the North West, suggested that an “aversion to personal debt” may impact on the number university applications.

She said: “One of the knock-on effects of the changes in higher education is that career decisions have been put at the forefront of students’ minds.

“Those considering going to university this year are scrutinising their options, with many deciding that developing their career as a school leaver or on apprenticeship programmes.”

She also highlighted the effect on universities from a business perspective, commenting: “They will need to demonstrate that their degree programmes continue to offer value for money and career prospects to students who are considering an increasing range of alternative options, and experiencing more financial pressures, than before.”

David Willets, the Minister for Universities and Science, emphasised the options that A-Level students had in clearing, reapplication and part-time study, while suggesting apprenticeships as an alternative.

The Minister also congratulated university degrees’ value for money, to suggest that further study is a good investment for school leavers to commit to.

He said: “Students are benefiting from a more diverse and competitive higher education sector. So there is a good choice of high quality courses.

“I would encourage students to consider studying part time or perhaps pursue an apprenticeship. You can also choose to reapply next year.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Miranda Dobson .