Colleges in Wales have pledged to be flexible in their admissions process to make sure every school leaver can progress in their learning this September after many received grades that were lower than expected on results day last week.

Days before GCSE results day, ColegauCymru, the representative body for FE institutions in Wales, said colleges would offer enhanced enrolment and initial assessment processes to ensure that students are placed on the most suitable course, and one that takes their choices into account as far as possible. 

Background: A-level results: Colleges call for a review

Halfon: Prove system is fair before GCSE results day

More: Grades lower in nine out of 10 sixth-form colleges

Next stage of learning

School leavers should visit their local college to access advice, guidance and support for the next stage of their learning, the organisation said, adding it had been a “testing week for AS- and A-level students, with a number receiving grades below that which they had expected”.

ColegauCymru chair and chief executive of Grŵp Llandrillo Menai Dafydd Evans, said: “We’re keen to reassure learners receiving their GCSE results this week that they have the option the of a place in college. We commit to taking on board the professional viewpoint and recommendations of schoolteachers as we support and guide those who may not receive the results they had hoped for.”

ColegauCymru chief executive Iestyn Davies said: “The further education sector will, as always, respond to individuals’ needs, supporting learners and their families at what has been and continues to be an incredibly difficult and uncertain time. We will continue to work closely with WJEC, Qualifications Wales and government colleagues to resolve the issues of the last week, our colleges are on hand and are committed to putting the needs of learners at the forefront of our efforts.”