RESULTS DAY AUGUST 2022 - The Parents' Guide to - Holy Cross
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The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 The Parents’ Guide to RESULTS DAY AUGUST 2022 www.theparentsguideto.co.uk | 1
The Parents’ Guide to University 2021 - 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
How to get the most out of this guide
Useful links Key terms
If you want to delve deeper and find Easy to understand definitions are
out more, we’ve included useful links provided throughout this guide
to other reliable sources. Simply in the key terms boxes. Don’t let
click on the picture icons to be taken tricky terminology stop you from
to our recommended websites. supporting your child.
Call out boxes Interactive
Information we think is particularly To make moving around this guide
important has been highlighted easier, the contents and chapter
throughout this guide; pay special headings are interactive. Simply
attention to these! click on a heading to be taken to the
chapter or page you would like to
Summaries read.
To help save you time, we have This guide does not need to be read
provided useful summaries at the sequentially – browse what interests
end of each chapter containing the you most.
key points.
This guide has been produced by The Parents Guide to and is licensed to Holy Cross
College to share with parents and others connected with Holy Cross College throughout
the 2021/2022 academic year. Click here to learn more.
Wherever we refer to ‘parents’ we mean ‘parents and carers.’ This includes grand-
parents, older siblings or any other person with significant caring responsibilities for
children.
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UCAS timetable - click here for the latest dates
Early entry deadlines UCAS Extra opens A Level Results Day
Entry deadline for UCAS Extra opens for A Level results are released
the universities students who have not UCAS Extra closes from 8am - although some Adjustment ends
of Oxford and gained an offer from any of Final date to apply universities may have con- Final date to apply through
Cambridge and most their five chosen universities. in Extra for 2022. firmed or denied their place adjustment for 2021. Make
dentistry, medicine This allows the students to After this date, all prior to this. Try to make sure this is something
or veterinary science add an extra choice one at a applications must sure your child is present your child wants to do as
applications. time until an offer has been be made through on the day in case Clearing decisions are final once an
made. Clearing. is necessary. offer has been made.
30th June
31st Aug
25th Feb
15th Oct
11th Aug
2021 2022
21st Sep
11th Aug
5th May
26th Jan
5th July
Entry deadline University choice deadline UCAS Clearing begins Adjustment opens Final deadline
The entry deadline for all The deadline for your child Clearing opens Adjustment opens Final deadline
other undergraduate courses. to confirm their first and - students can for students who for university
Try to keep within the internal insurance university from begin researching have exceeded their submission.
deadlines set by your child’s the offers that have been available predicted results. This After this date,
school or college. This will made. A later deadline universities and allows the student to your child must
provide enough time for the may apply if your child is courses prior to apply to a university reapply next year
application to be checked and still awaiting a decision knowing if an offer with higher entry as an independent
references to be provided. from a university. has been confirmed. requirements. student.
Always keep to the deadlines specified by your child’s school or college
Because of uncertainty in the way grades will be awarded in 2022 examinations, UCAS has not yet released final deadlines.
The dates shown in red in this timeline are estimates based on previous years. We’ll include live updates on The Parents’ Guide to website – click here.
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The Parents’ Guide to University 2020 - 2021
The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Results day 2022
08
Possible outcomes
What options are available for my child
if they surpass, meet or fail to meet their
predicted grades?
14
Understanding Clearing and
adjustment
What do these terms mean and how
can they benefit my child?
22
Other choices
What happens if my child no longer
wants to go to university?
“
26
My results were better than my predicted Summary
grades which was thrilling, but I still wanted
to go to my first-choice university, rather than
Page 7
apply for somewhere more competitive.
www.theparentsguideto.co.uk
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The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Results day 2022
A level results day is usually offered but on a different course). Unconditional offers Plan ahead
the second Thursday in August. They will not know which grades they If your child has accepted an It’s best to plan ahead for all eventualities
In 2021, this date was brought have achieved so they may not have unconditional offer there’s not much – right down to making sure their mobile
forward to provide more time the right information to make sensible to worry about other than whether phone is fully-charged so they can make
for students to action options decisions about next steps. they have achieved their potential; the all-important phone calls that might
given their grades were awarded their results won’t impact whether or be necessary, having university contact
through assessment rather than Conditional offers not they get their university place. numbers along with the UCAS reference
examinations. It has not yet If your child is waiting on conditional number, and a pen and paper to note
been decided how grades will be offers, it can be a nerve-racking time. things down.
awarded in 2022, therefore A level The best support you can provide is
results day has yet to be confirmed, to avoid taking them on holiday so
but it is likely to take place week that they are able to collect results PREPARE IN ADVANCE FOR
commencing 8th August. themselves and benefit from all the ALL POSSIBLE OUTCOMES
help the school / college provides if they
do not reach their predicted grades.
Results are available from school as early
Yes, they might be able to access Track
as 06.00 am (collection time will vary
while they are away (subject to reliable
depending on the individual school or
internet connections) but this will only
college) and depending on the school,
tell them whether they have succeeded
there may be different secure options
in gaining their university admission,
to collect results, such as by telephone
not their grades – so they won’t know
or via the parent portal. Check with the
which options are available to them
school / college to ensure you know
through Clearing.
what options are available.
Some applications through Clearing
Can’t collect in person?
need to be made within specified time
Where possible, results should be frames and working from different
collected in person or by a nominated time-zones is an added complication
representative (proof of nomination that is best avoided. Even if they have
and ID will be required). If it’s not an unconditional offer, should their
possible for your child’s results to be grades exceed expectations they may
collected directly, they can login to want to use the “adjustment” process
Track to see the university’s decision to apply for a course or university with
(i.e. whether or not a place has been higher entry requirements.
offered, or whether a place has been
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The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Possible outcomes
UCAS will receive your child’s Achieving the desired results Surpassing the desired results Failing to get a place
results directly and update their Celebrations ahead! If your child has a In most cases, having researched Yes, it’s disappointing, but there are still
system which adjusts to reflect conditional offer and meets the grades, thoroughly, students are happy to plenty of options available and it’s all
university offer status. that offer will switch to “unconditional” accept the university place they have important to keep your child motivated
and they should receive a confirmation been offered even if they have got and not let them feel like a failure. This
This happens from 08.00 am, but the letter from UCAS with details of next better grades than predicted. However, can be difficult if you feel they ignored
system can be busy, so access could steps (it varies university to university). in some cases, it may be the case that warnings and did not put in enough
be delayed. It does not show your However, if they’ve matched their offer they did not feel sufficiently confident effort, but this is, itself, a significant
child’s results, so it may be better but since changed their mind about to apply to a course with very high learning experience and may put
to wait until the results have been their university or subject choice, they entry standards and now feel they may them on a more productive path in the
reviewed and consolidated, rather can reject their offer and go through have missed out. In this case, they can future.
than being faced with a disappointing Clearing to try something else. use adjustment to make the application
rejection (“unsuccessful”) without a and they will need to wait to see if they Options will vary dependent on the
full understanding of why the desired Don’t forget, there is no guarantee are accepted in advance. Don’t forget, variance between their predicted
outcome hasn’t been achieved. that they will get the course they want acceptance is not automatic, even if grades and what they actually
through Clearing but it does provide they have significantly exceeded the achieved. If they missed by a small
alternatives and options if they realise stated minimum entry requirements. margin, it’s possible to speak to the
Key words: they’ve made a mistake earlier on in This can be for a variety of reasons, university and see if they will make an
UCAS will show the university the application process rather than but commonly because the course exception. Alternatively, they can apply
status offer. It will show: reapplying the next year. is already fully-subscribed through for another place by going through
those who applied originally. In the Clearing. If they need time to refocus,
• “Unconditional” (place and meantime, they can keep their offered a gap year could be an option or check
course confirmed – this means place open until the deadline for out the information in “other choices”.
that the entry requirements declines.
for the previously conditional
offer have been met)
70% 1% 10%
• “Unsuccessful” (conditions not
met, no place)
• “Unconditional changed
course” (they have succeeded
in achieving a place on their The percentage of The percentage of The percentage of
desired course, but are being
offered an alternative with university students securing university students university students who
lower entry requirements) a place at their “first” or opting for UCAS ad- received a university of-
“insurance” choice. justment. fer through Clearing.
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The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Examination re-marks Declining a place
If the marks seem inappropriate given No matter the reason, a student can
your child’s skill level, it’s possible to decide to decline a university place. It
apply for a remark. It’s vital your child could be because their circumstances
speaks to their subject teacher first and have changed, they have decided on
confirms their opinion. an alternative course, they don’t want
to go to university or other reasons.
Grades can go down as well as up Declining a place is not a problem but
An important consideration when remember: it is an irreversible decision
applying for remarking is that, whilst and they will not be able to change
there’s a possibility that the paper may their mind and get the offer reinstated
have been unfairly marked down and, once they have turned it down.
following reassessment, a higher grade
allocated, the reverse could also be So before declining a place, make sure
true, in which case your child may be other options have been thoroughly
allocated a lower grade than originally researched (or confirmed, if it is to
awarded. accept an offer elsewhere) and it is
absolutely the right choice. It would
If applying for re-grades, keep the be a great shame to turn down a good
university advised of both intention opportunity in the hope of achieving a
and progress. They are not obliged to better one and then ending up with no
hold the place open through Clearing offer at all.
and adjustment.
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The Parents’ Guide to University 2021 - 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Understanding Clearing
Clearing is the system universities How it works Find out what is available Don’t waste valuable time
use to fill up any vacancies they have Students must apply (through UCAS) to Use the UCAS website to find out which It’s a good idea to speak to the
on a course. It’s available to students participate in Clearing. courses are available via Clearing. This university in person before applying
that don’t have any offers: either will not be a full list of all university for a place through Clearing to find
because they have not succeeded If a university hasn’t responded courses, but a list of all those that are out if the course is still available,
in meeting criteria for conditional and confirmed the place for which available now that results have come whether your child meets the entry
offers or because they have rejected your child originally applied (for out and universities know whether or requirements, and whether the
all the offers they have. example, they may be just below not the students to whom they have course is suitable for them. Students
entry requirements and the university offered places have met the grades. Of need to call themselves rather than
Don’t feel that because a university is considering whether to make an course, some courses will not appear have someone call on their behalf.
offers a university place through offer) they will not be eligible to apply because they are fully subscribed, but The university is going to consider
Clearing this means the courses are for another course through Clearing there will still be plenty of choices. In whether to offer them a place, not their
undesirable. It is possible that fewer until such time as they have received some cases, courses in which your child representative! In some cases, the
students applied than anticipated; a rejection. In this scenario, it’s may have been interested but did not universities may make an offer over the
students didn’t achieve the minimum worth making direct contact with the meet entry requirements might appear phone – but if not, they will revert
entry requirements; or successful university in question to get an update if many students failed to meet the entry relatively quickly.
students had a change of heart. on status. requirements at the time of results.
It may seem obvious, but worth
Some courses (such as Oxbridge and remembering: the most popular
OVER 65, 000 STUDENTS GO medicine) do not offer places through universities have the most applicants
THROUGH CLEARING EACH YEAR Clearing. and field spare places first, so your
child needs to be ready to act quickly to
secure the best options.
Useful links I’m in
and I teractive
’ll tak !C
e you lick me
webs to th
UCAS ite eir
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The Parents’ Guide to University 2021 - 2022 www.theparentsguideto.co.uk
The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 Paul’s story:
Keep focused during Clearing Paul’s story:
Going through Clearing was never
Clearing can only be used to apply Respect deadlines something I really considered - or
for one course at a time, so it’s knew much about! My A Level
Be especially mindful of deadlines results did not entirely go to plan
important to make sure this is during Clearing. There are black and I missed out on my first choice
the right course. A good way to and white restrictions on how long university by one grade - I remember
do this is to research ahead of places will be held open and offers feeling really upset. I tried ringing
results, anticipating the need to extended so ensure that your child has the university, but they were not
use Clearing. If great results mean fully understood this. If universities willing to move on their decision.
this extra research doesn’t come do not hear from your child within
in handy, so much the better; the time outlined, they may simply Although I did receive the grades
however, in the event of needing assume your child is not interested to gain an offer from my insurance
Clearing, it will be time very well and withdraw the place. Very often, in university - this was no longer
spent. such circumstances, that decision is somewhere I wanted to study. I
irreversible, and neither you nor your decided to try Clearing.
Check your child likes the university child are likely to get them to put the
If time permits, your child should pay offer back on the table. This was really stressful. It was
a visit if it’s at a university they haven’t now 11am and most of the courses
visited before (if your child dislikes the Universities understand that thought through Clearing had gone. I
atmosphere of the university, they’re and consideration need to be given remember calling a few universities
unlikely to perform well there); and in accepting a place (especially if it is - but with very little luck. After a few
all the other essential considerations different from what was expected or more phone calls, I eventually found
continue to apply (regarding previously planned for), but ultimately, a university course I liked which
accommodation, distance from home, they want their students to be very was still available. They provided
finance etc.). It’s not sensible to take pleased to attend their universities and, me with a provisional offer over the
Clearing as a “last” attempt to get on if they don’t feel this, they will extend phone and I applied.
any course, anywhere just to get to the offer elsewhere (or chose to run
university. with a smaller learning group). In hindsight, this was a huge risk,
which luckily paid off - I cannot
Stay positive Being contactable is crucial imagine studying anywhere else! It
Ensuring contact details, such as phone was only until later did I realise that
Keep your child’s spirits up. Clearing number, address and email account,
can be stressful and your child might Clearing places were released well
are accurate throughout the entire before A Level results day. My advice
not get a place on their first, second UCAS process is very important but
or even third attempt. But don’t give to anyone applying to university is to
especially during Clearing – otherwise check this list carefully and research
up: persistence and determination are your child could miss out because
omnipotent! some universities and courses just in
details are being sent to the wrong case you may need to use it! A lot of
place. stress could have been avoided and I
might have not been so lucky.
www.theparentsguideto.co.uk
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The Parents’ Guide to University 2021 - 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Understanding Adjustment
Adjustment is used if a student has Five day window Think beyond grades Avoid compromise
surpassed their predicted grades Once a student has indicated that they Universities that require higher The course on offer may not be as
and wants to apply for a course that would like to go through the adjustment admission levels don’t necessarily suitable (or as interesting!) as the
they previously thought unrealistic. process, they have five days in which equate to “better” universities, course originally accepted. Don’t
It opens on A Level results day until to find an alternative course whilst especially when put into the context let your child ditch all their diligent
31 August. keeping their existing offer open – this of your child and what learning research for the sake of getting into a
includes weekends, so think carefully environment suits them. Bear in mind, university that they (or, worse still, you)
It’s easy to get carried away on a cloud when you confirm entering adjustment your child may have reached their consider ranks better than others. It
of euphoria when achieving results though UCAS - the appropriate people minimum entry requirements, but could prove a very costly mistake – both
that are much better than expected may not be contactable outside of other students may have matched financially and emotionally.
especially if the perception is that Monday to Friday. their top requirements: so there’s a
this opens up opportunities to attend possibility that your child could spend Act quickly
more “prestigious” universities than After the five day window, existing three or four years with a peer group With a five-day window in which
originally anticipated. However, offers close out and are lost. who considers them the underdog. existing offers are held open, there is
consider additional options with a a risk of losing the original offer and
balanced perspective, the “out of Previous research ending up with neither the newly
reach” options are not always the best. All the considerations regarding preferred option nor the originally
location, accommodation, transport, preferred option. This is not a good
Adjustment opportunities aren’t listed etc. still apply. It’s possible your child place to be and, after the euphoria
(as in Clearing) so phone calls to the may have discovered a lot about of over-achieving, could result in a
university are necessary. This can be a their preferences whilst researching huge disappointment to miss out on a
long process, so don’t let your child get universities and these should not preferred degree course.
caught in lengthy conversations if there be ignored when choosing a new
are no places on offer: politely end the university through adjustment.
conversation and move on.
Accepting or considering?
If your child accepts an offer over the
phone and the new university confirms
this through UCAS, any previous offer
will be automatically rejected. There’s
no changing this, so your child must be Useful links I’m in
crystal clear whether they are accepting and I teractive
’ll tak !C
an offer (especially if this is verbally) or e you lick me
making exploratory discussions. UCAS webs to th
ite eir
Clearing
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Did your child meet the required grades for their first choice university?
YES NO
University track not Has your child still been
updated? offered a place in their first
Contact the university choice university on
Are their grades university track?
for more information.
better than expected?
YES NO
YES NO
Has your child been
YES offered a place to their
Insurance university?
NO
Congratulations Well done Great Don’t panic
Your child can stick with their first Your child has an offer from Your child has an offer Your child can apply to go through Clearing to find a
choice university or go through their first choice university. from their insurance uni- suitable alternative university. If no suitable univer-
adjustment. For more information read versity. sity is found your child can reapply next year as an
“Understanding Adjustment” in this independent student or explore alternative options
guide. such as an apprenticeship. For more information
read “Understanding Clearing” and “Other choices”
in this guide.
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TO FIND OUT MORE DOWNLOAD THE
Other choices PARENTS’ GUIDE TO APPRENTICESHIPS
It is important to understand and sick pay along with access to the
that university isn’t for everyone. university experience and no post
Some children may know straight qualification loan (their employer
away, whilst for others it may and the government fund all costs), it
only become apparent during the makes for an attractive proposition.
university application process. An Most apprenticeship last for about
increasingly popular alternative is two to four years and the minimum
wage is £3.90 per hour. There are entry
apprenticeships and traineeships.
requirements at four different levels,
Or there are school leaver
from the equivalent of five GCSE passes
programmes which give a direct to the equivalent of a master’s degree.
route into employment and can
result in further qualifications. If Traineeships
your child needs more time to figure
Traineeships are much shorter
out their next steps, a gap year can
and last six weeks to six months.
offer breathing space. They are a great way to prepare for
apprenticeships (if your child doesn’t
Apprenticeships: have the minimum entry requirements)
Apprenticeships combine study at or to get first-hand experience of what a
college or university with work. If job is like.
your child knows what sort of job
they might like to do, this provides an School leaver programmes
ideal opportunity to go straight into
School leaver programmes offer
the workplace whilst still formally
opportunities to join the workplace
developing their skills and gaining
straight after sixth form studies and
a qualification. It’s certainly not an
commence skills development and
easy option – holding down a full-
career progression through experience
time job (albeit with one or two days
as well as studying to obtain a
each week to attend university) and
nationally recognised qualification.
keeping up with studies can be tough.
Entry requirements vary from employer
But with a salary, holiday entitlement
to employer.
Useful links
I’m in
and I teractive
’ll tak !C
e you lick me
The Parents’ webs to th
UCAS ite eir
Guide to
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22 | www.theparentsguideto.co.uk www.theparentsguideto.co.uk | 23The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
ONE IN TEN STUDENTS WILL
TAKE A GAP YEAR AFTER
FINISHING SCHOOL
Gap year / deferred entry likes and dislikes, as well as giving them
Taking a year out between school and valuable first-hand experience in a
university can provide the opportunity variety of areas they may not have had
to find out a little bit more about chance to try out. However, for some a
personal preferences rather than being gap year can be distracting and, if not
directed by schools, colleges (and well-planned, could prove somewhat
parents!). It’s also a good opportunity directionless, which is unlikely to be
to find out how your child fares fending beneficial.
for themself.
Some may want to enter the world of
A gap year can be taken while entry to work straightaway or, if they haven’t
university is being deferred, once a achieved the results they had hoped,
place has been accepted (allowing they could always try retakes or other
a year between leaving school and sixth-form subjects.
starting university), or if university is
not the next step at all. University reapplication
Should your child decide to reapply to
Traditionally, this is a year spent university for any reason, be sure they
travelling overseas, but it needn’t save a copy of their UCAS application so
focus exclusively on that. Volunteering they do not have to rewrite everything,
and work experience can also be as the original application is deleted
incorporated and inform your child’s from the central database each year.
Useful links
I’m in
and I teractive
’ll tak !C
GOV. UK e you lick me
webs to th
Foreign Travel Trail Finders Gap 360 ite eir
Advice
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Summary Advice from parents
“
Results day is daunting and 3. Poor results do not equate to a poor
exciting. No matter what the future: there are still lots of options;
outcome, there are still choices to University isn’t always the
make and reflections to be made. 4. Be mindful of time when applying best option, so support your child in
through Clearing - but don’t rush the considering alternatives. Muhammad
1. If your child gets what they process; was always a more active student so
wanted, well done; learning through an apprenticeship with
5. Don’t forget there are plenty of Network Rail suited him so much better
2. Don’t assume if they exceed options other than university than going to university.
expectations that they will change including an apprenticeship,
“
the choices they have already made; traineeship or a gap year.
Don’t leave preparing
for Clearing until results day. Jenny
was worried she hadn’t reached her
conditional offer, so we spent time
together checking other options in
Clearing. She was right, but we were able
to act immediately on our back-up plan.
“ If your child is taking a
gap year, make sure it counts. Richard
needed a gap year to have a break
between studies. He spent six months
gaining experience in the work place,
which also financed six months travelling
around South-East Asia.
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The Parents’ Guide to
Exam Revision
We want our children to do well in ✓✓ Simple steps to create a helpful
their exams and it’s not all down to study space
what happens at school or college, ✓✓ Ways to help them revise – you
homelife plays a crucial role. can’t revise for them, but you can
help. We’ve provided different
Find out what you can do at home options to to make facts easier to
to give your child the best chance remember
of success, from setting up the right
routines to helping them cope with ✓✓ How to build resilience and
exam nerves. The Parents’ Guide to manage stress to form lifelong
Study and Exam Revision (sixth form) good habits and protect their
is full of practical advice that’s easy mental health
to action: ✓✓ How to support them during exam
✓✓ Keeping them healthy – covering time
diet, caffeine, sleep and screen time ✓✓ How to help them with exam
✓✓ Providing the right homelife – why nerves
setting a routine is vital
m e to
k !
Clic y now
bu
Buy now
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www.theparentsguideto.co.ukThe
TheParents’
Parents’Guide
Guideto University
to Results2020
Day -2022
2021 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Next steps
32
Preparing your child
How can I help my child prepare for
university life before they go?
34
Life skills
Teach your child to be wise with
money.
36
Living arrangements
Student or private accommoda-
tion? What might my child need?
“
43
I never imagined my daughter could Final words
budget for herself, but with a few tips
she proved really good at it. Page 31
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BUDGETING IN ADVANCE
Preparing your child
AND LEARNING TO STICK TO
IT IS KEY
Once a university place has been Staying in touch
secured, it’s time to celebrate. Make Of course you’re going to miss them,
the most of enjoying the moment but try not to be over-bearing about
and be sure to share with your child how often they should stay in touch
how pleased you are for them – once they’ve moved out. They need to
especially if the university is one start relying on themselves rather than
of their preferred choices but not continually checking in with you. That
necessarily yours! said, it’s only fair that you should come
to some agreement about how often
After the celebrations, it’s time to they’ll communicate, so you both know
prepare. This is a wonderful opportunity what to expect. For example, if you want
and you’ll want to help your child make them to telephone you every week, chat
the most of it. Some useful ideas include: this through with them and give them a
means of doing so.
Let them take control
Let them take control of moving Reassure them that they can call if
themselves as much as possible: writing they need help or to chat, but avoid
their own “to do” lists, choosing a move presenting yourself as their personal
date, deciding what needs to be done. rescuer when things don’t quite go the
You can always help them by checking way they’d like. Coping with life is part of
their lists but try not to be the one growing up and becoming independent.
orchestrating events. You are their parent, not a magic fixer!
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www.theparentsguideto.co.uk | 33The Parents’ Guide to University 2021 - 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Life skills
Budgeting Financial worries Cooking Course preparation
Teach them how to budget. If you’re Overspending is an issue faced by many Spend some time cooking with your Remind your child to check their new
supporting them financially, don’t students, which can cause anxiety for child, so that they know how to prepare timetable, pre-reading and travel
budget on their behalf by paying bills both you and your child. Consider the a few meals with fresh ingredients. time so they become familiar with the
direct or limiting their money to a following: These should be easy one-dish dinners rhythm their new life will take.
weekly allowance – in the long run that don’t require lots of pots, pans
it won’t help them. If they receive • Make sure they apply for student and other kitchen utensils. This will Some courses may also require several
financial loans, it’s highly likely they’ll discount cards, such as the National not only stand them in good stead for key text books. Check whether the
get the full term’s allowance at the Union of Students (NUS) card and a inexpensive and healthy eating, but university has a second-hand book
beginning of term straight into their 16-25 Railcard; being able to host dinners will make shop and try to visit early to find the
bank account, so it could be easy for • Encourage your child to find part- them popular with other students too. best bargains.
them to spend all the money and then time work, ideally during holiday-
have nothing for the rest of the term. time, but term-time too if money is
a significant issue. However, make
Teach them how to budget for rent, sure your child is not neglecting
bills, course materials, food and their academic studies as research
entertainment so they understand what shows working more than 20 hours
expenses are coming up and how to put each week during term-time can
aside money so they have enough to have a negative impact on academic
cover the cost of living. performance;
• Encourage your child to speak to
a student money advisor at their
university;
• Give your child tips on money saving
ideas, such as buying non-branded
food items and attending free
events.
• Speak with your child’s bank about
extending their interest free overdraft.
Useful links
I’m in
and I teractive
’ll tak !C
Which? e you lick me
University Managing webs to th
ite eir
Budget Your Money
calculator
34 | www.theparentsguideto.co.uk www.theparentsguideto.co.uk | 35The Parents’ Guide to University 2021 - 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Living arrangements
Student accommodation different “house rules” about comings
and goings, as your child (who is now
There are two types of student Considerations • Where are the laundry facilities?
accommodation depending whether an adult!) at university is very different • Is there catering (obviously more
from a child at school. Again, this • Does rent include the room
the university is campus or not. for the year, or will your child expensive) or will your child
Campus universities have student option may restrict your child’s ease in have access to a kitchen and be
meeting other students and, depending have to move out all their stuff
accommodation within the same during holiday times (sometimes responsible for cooking their own
complex as the university and social on journey time, may also limit their food?
participation in co-curricular activities the rooms are rented during
buildings, non-campus universities holidays to others)? • If they have a car, is there parking
usually have dedicated buildings because they are not on the doorstep. available – and does it come at a
• What’s included in rent? Are
usually quite close to the university there additional expenses such price?
buildings. Private arrangement • How far are halls from the
as gas, electricity, water rates,
If your child is going to university with WiFi / internet, etc? university itself – are there travel
The great thing about student a group of existing friends, they may
accommodation is that it offers prefer to live in private accommodation
private rooms specifically designed – for example renting a house with
to promote study and all the other four bedrooms, where each can take
their own bedroom and share the other
BALANCE THE RIGHT
tenants are students – typically within
the same year group. It’s a fantastic areas of the house. This can (though LIVING CONDITIONS WITH
way to meet students on different not always) be cheaper than student THE FINANCIAL COST
courses, of the same age group and in accommodation. They won’t have
a similar situation. We’d recommend some of the facilities offered by student
student accommodation for year one, if digs (i.e. a canteen) but they may feel
possible. this offers a more homely option.
Home The downside is that they may not get
If the university is close enough, to meet other students as easily as well
they could stay at home with you. as having to organise their own bills,
Financially this is a good choice, as such as gas, electricity and internet.
they won’t incur expensive rental It can be a great choice once they’ve
charges although transport costs may found their feet, perhaps in years two
be higher. You’ll both need to adapt to or three.
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What to pack
Help your child to organise what Bright colours
they’ll need to take with them when Try to keep to the basics when it comes
they go to university. This means to kitchen utensils and try to purchase
everything from course materials, items, which are easily identifiable -
laptops, phones to bedding, bright colours or patterns will help your
cooking equipment and clothes child keep track of their items.
plus all the appropriate paperwork
such as bank accounts, TV licences, Last minute arrangements
insurance and new travel passes. If you are helping your child move into
It will make their life easier if they their new university accommodation,
know how to plan ahead and it will then it may be a good idea to factor
make you feel more comfortable in some time for a trip to the local
knowing they are well-prepared. shopping centre for any last minute
purchases.
Bedding
Knowing exactly what to pack
will largely depend on the type of Don’t forget Important
accommodation your child has documents
applied for. Although most halls of
• Passport
residence provide students with
• Driving licence
single standard size beds, some
• All university and accommodation
private accommodation or alternative
correspondence
arrangements may differ - so it
• Insurance documents
is always worth checking before
• Bank details
purchasing any bedding.
Useful links
Best-buys
38 | www.theparentsguideto.co.uk www.theparentsguideto.co.uk
www.theparentsguideto.co.uk||3939I’m
The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022 Click interactiv
University shopping list - click here for our best buys eac e!
inspi h item fo
ratio
n!
r
BEDROOM BATHROOM KITCHEN CLOTHING STUDY ELECTRICS
Essentials: Essentials: Complete sets Essentials: Essentials: Essentials:
Alarm clock Bath towels Casual clothes A4 folders Batteries
Essentials:
Bin (small) Deodorant Evening clothes File Dividers Chargers
Hairbrush Baking tray
Books Fleece Highlighters Extension lead
Hand towels Bowls
Coat hangers Gym clothes Notepad / paper Laptop
Nail clippers Cheese grater
Mirror Smart clothes Pens and pencils Laptop case
Razor Chopping board
Pyjamas Plastic wallets Multi plug adaptor
Sanitary towels Cling film
Extras: Smart shoes Post-it notes
Shampoo Corkscrew
Sports equipment Stapler Extras:
Beanbag Shower gel Cutlery
Socks White-tac
Cushions Toilet roll Glasses Mouse
Rain jacket
Door wedge Toothbrush / paste Knives Keyboard
Swimwear Extras:
Extra storage Wash bag Mugs Printer
Thermals
Family photos Plates Calculator Printing ink
Trainers
Over door hangers Pots and pans Desk lamp Speakers
Extras: Underwear
Plant Scissors Diary / planner Television
Winter clothes
Rug Bath mat Tin foil
Wall art / posters Flip flops Tin opener
Hair dryer Tea towels
Make-up Wooden spoons
SLEEP
Moisturiser HOUSE DOCUMENTS FUN & GAMES
Essentials:
Extras: KEEPING Essentials: Extras:
Casserole dish
Bed sheets FIRST AID Colander
Essentials: Bank accounts
CV and references
Bicycle
Board games
Duvet Complete sets Masher Coat hangers
Discount cards Computer games
Duvet set Measuring jug Door wedge
Essentials: Exam certificates Dress-up costumes
Mattress protector Plastic bag sealers Iron
NHS number Fairy lights
Pillows Antibacterial wipes Recipe books Laundry bag
NI number Games console
Pillow cases Antiseptic cream Scales Washing powder
Passport Gym equipment
Hot-water bottle Shot glasses Wet wipes
Passport photos Photo albums
Extras: Hydration salts Slow cooker Uni paperwork Playing cards
Painkillers Spice jars Extras: Polaroid camera
Diffuser / oils
Plasters Tupperware Projector
Mattress topper Drying rack
Sewing kit Vegetable peeler Extras: Recipe books
Night lamp Mini vacuum
Torch Whisk TV licence Sports equipment
Warm blanket Laundry basket
Tweezers Wok
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Final Words
You’re bound to feel excited and proud used to studying, and a new peer group
about what your child’s achieved as in which to find friends.
they embark on their first independent
step towards adulthood by attending Even if they are not moving away to
university. But it may be tinged with an study, there’s still much in their new
element of sadness as you realise your life that will be different from before.
parenting role is about to evolve into In this sea of change, you are likely to
something different. Please don’t forget be their only familiar anchor. Yes, they
your child still needs you very much - need space to adapt at their own pace,
albeit in a different way. but they may also need to know you
are still there for them and that there
Be there for them! Leaving school and is some certainty and consistency in a
long-term friends to start a new life is fast-changing environment.
exciting but it’s emotional too. For your
child, potentially everything is about And finally ... don’t forget about
to change. The life that has been so yourself! University is a short-lived
familiar to them (especially if they’ve experience that leaves a life-long
been at the same school since Year 7) impression so, alongside your child,
disappears. They have new teachers, a make sure you also enjoy all the
new place to live, new subjects to study rewards and challenges this unique
in a different way from how they’re experience offers.
Join us
If you’re interested in regular updates about other ways you can help your teen-
age children, click here and join our online community.
Sign up here
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Click o I’m interac
n tiv
and I’ the univers e!
ll take it
A-Z University listing websi
you to y name
te
their
A (Prifysgol Metropolitan Caerdydd)
Cardiff University (Prifysgol Caerdydd)*
H London Business School
London Institute of Banking and
University of Aberdeen Harper Adams University
Abertay University (formerly University University of Chester Hartpury University Finance, The London Metropolitan
of Abertay Dundee) University of Chichester Heriot-Watt University University
Aberystwyth University (Prifysgol City University London University of Hertfordshire London School of Hygiene and Tropical
Aberystwyth) Courtauld Institute of Art, The (degrees Heythrop College (degrees awarded by Medicine
Anglia Ruskin University awarded by University of London) University of London) London School of Economics and
Anglo-European College of Chiropractic Coventry University University of the Highlands and Islands Political Science, The (LSE)*
Archbishop of Canterbury, The Cranfield University University of Huddersfield London South Bank University
Arden University (formerly known as University for the Creative Arts University of Hull University College London*
Resource Development International) University of Cumbria Loughborough University
Ashridge Business School
D I M
Aston University Imperial College of Science, Technology
De Montfort University and Medicine (also known as Imperial University of Manchester*
B University of Derby
University of Dundee
College London)* Manchester Metropolitan University
Middlesex University
Bangor University (Prifysgol Bangor) Institute of Cancer Research
University of Bath Durham University* Institute of Education, University of
Bath Spa University London N
University of Bedfordshire E NCG
Birkbeck, University of London University of East Anglia
University of East London
K Newcastle University*
Newman University, Birmingham
University of Birmingham* Keele University
Birmingham City University Edge Hill University University of Kent University of Northampton, The
University College Birmingham University of Edinburgh, The* King’s College London* Northumbria University Newcastle
Bishop Grossteste University Edinburgh Napier University Kingston University Norwich University of the Arts
University of Bolton University of Essex University of Nottingham*
Arts University Bournemouth University of Exeter* L Nottingham Trent University
Bournemouth University University of Central Lancashire
BPP University F Lancaster University O
University of Bradford Falmouth University University of Leeds* Open University, The
University of Brighton Leeds Beckett University (formerly University of Oxford*
University of Bristol* G Leeds Metropolitan University) Oxford Brookes University
Brunel University London University of Glasgow* Leeds Arts University
University of Buckingham Glasgow Caledonian University Leeds Trinity University P
Buckinghamshire New University University of Gloucestershire University of Leicester Plymouth University
Glyndŵr University (Prifysgol Glyndŵr) University of Lincoln University of Portsmouth
C Goldsmiths, University of London
University of Greenwich
University of Liverpool*
Q
University of Cambridge* Liverpool Hope University
Canterbury Christ Church University Guildhall School of Music and Drama Liverpool John Moores University Queen Margaret University, Edinburgh
Cardiff Metropolitan University Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
University of London
44 | www.theparentsguideto.co.uk www.theparentsguideto.co.uk | 45The Parents’ Guide to University 2020 - 2021n © The Parents’ Guide to Results Day 2022
Queen Mary, University of London* University of Strathclyde
Queen’s University Belfast University of Suffolk
University of Sunderland
R University of Surrey
Ravensbourne University of Sussex
University of Reading Swansea University (Prifysgol
Regent’s University London Abertawe)
Richmond, The American International
University in London T
Robert Gordon University, Aberdeen Teesside University
University of Roehampton Trinity Laban Conservatoire of Music
Rose Bruford College of Theatre and and Dance
Performance
Royal Academy of Music U
Royal Agricultural University University of the Arts, London
Royal Central School of Speech and University College of Estate
Drama (University of London) Management
Royal College of Art University College of Osteopathy
Royal College of Music University of Law, The
Royal College of Nursing University of Ulster
Royal Conservatoire of Scotland
Royal Holloway, University of London W
Royal Northern College of Music University of Wales (Prifysgol Cymru)
Royal Veterinary College, The University of Wales Trinity Saint David
(Prifysgol Cymru Y Drindod Dewi Sant)
S University of Warwick*
University of Salford University of the West of England,
School of Oriental and African Studies Bristol
(SOAS), University of London University of West London
University of Sheffield* University of the West of Scotland
Sheffield Hallam University University of Westminster
University of South Wales (Prifysgol De University of Winchester, The
Cymru) University of Wolverhampton
University of Southampton* University of Worcester
Solent University Writtle University College
University of St Andrews
St George’s, University of London Y
University of St Mark and St John, University of York*
Plymouth York St John University
St Mary’s University, Twickenham
Staffordshire University * Russell Group Universities
University of Stirling
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