Results day does not always go to plan. Sometimes a child misses the grades their sixth form asked for. Sometimes they do far better than predicted and want to aim higher. Either way, there are often good places available at independent day and boarding schools at short notice, if you act quickly.
If your child missed the grades they needed
- Call the school first. Sixth forms sometimes accept a student who narrowly missed an offer, especially if they did well in the subjects they plan to study.
- Ask about re-marks. If a grade is close to a boundary, ask your child’s current school about a review of marking. Check the deadlines with them.
- Look at the wider market. Many independent schools have places in Year 12 (and in other year groups) in late August and early September, and entry requirements vary widely between schools.
- Consider other courses. A different combination of A levels, the IB, or a one-year GCSE or IGCSE programme may suit your child better. See Qualifications and Courses.
If your child did better than expected
Strong results can open the door to more selective schools that still have sixth-form places. It is worth asking, even late in the summer. Scholarships are sometimes still available for exceptional candidates.
Bursaries and fee assistance
Many independent schools offer means-tested bursaries, which can reduce fees significantly for families who qualify. Funds are limited and are often allocated before results day. Some schools do keep support available for late applicants, so it is always worth asking.
How WBS can help
British School Clearing is our dedicated service for finding independent day and boarding school places at short notice. We work with more than 100 partner schools. We know which have places, and we contact registrars directly on your behalf, so your enquiry is heard quickly.
- Contact us as soon as you know you need a place.
- We get to know your child: their results, interests and any particular needs.
- We identify suitable schools with places and make direct introductions.
- We support you through visits, interviews and offers.
Find out more about British School Clearing, or email info@whichbritishschool.com. In clearing, every day matters.
Related guides
- Ages and Courses: UK year groups by age, with US grade equivalents
- School Year Calculator: find your child’s year group from their date of birth
- Qualifications and Courses: GCSE, IGCSE, A level, IB and more
- What is my English Level?: CEFR and IELTS explained
- Creating a Student Profile
- Visas and Guardianship