Supporting care-experienced students through results day and Clearing
Results day can be a stressful time for young people. For care-experienced students, its emotional impact may be amplified. Unlike their peers, they may not have someone at home encouraging them, celebrating with them, or helping them navigate their next steps. This can create a sense of isolation and uncertainty about their future.
This is where Clearing becomes an essential part of the journey to Higher Education (HE).
What is Clearing?
Clearing is a UCAS process that matches applicants to university places that haven’t yet been filled. It provides a second chance for young people who may not have received the grades they were hoping for or who have changed their mind about what or where they want to study.
For an overview of what Clearing is and how it works, check out our piece, What is Clearing and how can it help you find the right course?
Key Clearing dates for 2025
- Clearing opens – Saturday 5, July
- SQA results day (Scotland) – Tuesday, 5 August
- A-level results day – Thursday, 14 August
- GCSE results day – Thursday, 21 August
- Clearing closes – Monday, 20 October
Supporting care-experienced students through Clearing
Care-experienced students may face practical and emotional barriers when trying to engage with Clearing. Without someone to sit beside them and make phone calls, or talk through different course options, the process can feel overwhelming. Some may be unsure about how to find the right course or how to talk to university admissions teams. Others may not be aware of the support available to them, including contextual admissions, year-round accommodation, and financial support such as bursaries.
As educators, carers, and support workers, there’s a lot we can do to make this process feel more manageable. Be aware of the needs of your young people at this stressful time. Remind them they are not alone. Remind them that their results do not define them and whilst certain doors may close to them if they do not get the grades they want, there are plenty of alternative routes to get to where they want to be.
Clearing resource
Go Higher West Yorkshire has produced an excellent resource on Clearing with top tips, support services, and downloadable information for advisers. Clearing: A fantastic route into HE and key signposting information. It includes a handy checklist that care-experienced students can work through to feel more prepared and confident when navigating their options.
Top tips
Here are a few simple ways you can support a care-experienced young person through Clearing:
- Offer a quiet space to make calls or complete online applications.
- Talk through course choices and help with research.
- Offer to sit with them while they speak to universities or colleges.
- Encourage them to contact the named support staff listed on university and college websites for care-experienced applicants.
- Reassure them that plenty of students go through Clearing and succeed in finding the right course.
With the right support, care-experienced students can take positive steps toward HE, not despite their circumstances, but in full recognition of their strength and resilience.
And remember: Clearing is not plan B, it’s just a new plan A.
Rob Scott, GHWY Training Delivery Officer
