University of Bedfordshire launches countdown to A Level results day with TikTok videos

To mark the arrival of A Level results and the start of Clearing 2020, the University of Bedfordshire has launched a series of special TikTok videos to get young people talking about their Higher Education options.

Whilst school pupils across England receive their A Level results tomorrow (13 August) both virtually and in-person from their school or college, the dedicated Clearing team at Bedfordshire has opened their phone lines and online chat rooms, and are ready to help prospective students.

Available to handle enquiries, the University’s admissions team will be on hand throughout A Level results day and over the coming weeks to talk through course options, accommodation and necessary funding, as well as answering any questions about how student life and learning will function in the wake of the pandemic.

Professor Rebecca Bunting, Interim Vice Chancellor, said: “Young people have had to endure much adversity and have shown such resilience during the most crucial part of their educational journey, and we want them to know that the University of Bedfordshire is here to support them.

"Clearing is a tool for making futures a reality, and our dedicated Clearing staff will be able to assist all applicants through the stages to starting at university.”

With availability on courses across the board, students have a wide range of subjects to consider, from Nursing and Midwifery to Contemporary Art and Graphic Design, and International Business and Tourism Management to Primary Education, Sports Science and Social Studies.

David Seaton, Assistant Director of Student Admissions and Recruitment, said: “It’s good to be optimistic and there are plenty of reasons to think that starting university this year can still be an enriching and positive experience, even if Covid19 has brought about change and social distancing requirements.

“Our Clearing team is here for all applicants, no matter what their situation.

"So whether you want to study a different course, you didn’t perform as well as you’d hoped on your exams, you’re struggling to get hold of funding, or perhaps you weren’t even planning to come to university until next year, rest assured we are here to help – so give us a call today!”

Discussing student life in September following the UK’s emergence from lockdown, Ruki Heritage, director of student experience, said: “The University’s main campuses are based in great towns which offer a variety of cultural things to see and do, even whilst social distancing.

"Luton, Bedford, Aylesbury and Milton Keynes boast lots of green space with outdoor amenities and heritage points of interest.

"Local cinemas, creative arts facilities, leisure centres, arcades, shops, bars and restaurants are also easily accessible for students to utilise and meet new friends safely.

“Individual courses and Beds SU societies will be hosting plenty of virtual gatherings and meetings as well, to allow students to get a flavour of what’s on offer at the University and introduce them to lifelong friends with similar interests.”

The University’s TikTok videos can be viewed and shared online via social media: www.tiktok.com/@uniofbedsProspective students can call the Clearing team on 0300 3300 703 or speak to them via live chat on www.beds.ac.uk/clearing, where they will be able to talk through their options and queries with an experienced member of the admissions team.

Phone line and Live Chat opening hours:

- Thursday August 13, – 7am till 8pm

- Friday, August 14, - 8am till 8pm

- Saturday and Sunday – 10am till 4pm

- Monday, August 17, onwards – 9am till 6pm.