A-level indicators in school league tables

Commenting on the introduction of English school league table measures of pupils achieving AAB and above in A-level ‘facilitating subjects’, Dr Wendy Piatt, Director General of the Russell Group, said: 

“We welcome the publication of information that will help students and their parents make good choices about their place of study post-16 and that will help those who wish to study at university achieve that ambition.

“We agree A-level choices really matter. Too few students realise that some subjects and subject combinations can keep open wider degree course options at leading universities. 

“However, it would be wrong to use this simple indicator as a measure of the number of pupils in a school who are qualified to apply successfully to a Russell Group university. 

“The Russell Group has published a guide called Informed Choices which lists 'facilitating subjects' which are those most commonly required for entry to our leading universities.

“However, it’s important that students make decisions based on their individual circumstances. We encourage all prospective students to check the entry requirements for their chosen course before applying to a particular university.

“There are some advanced level subjects which provide suitable preparation for entry to university generally but which we do not include within the facilitating subjects because there are relatively few degree programmes where an advanced level qualification would be a requirement for entry. 

“Not everyone who applies to a Russell Group university will receive an offer and for some courses the entry requirement is lower or higher still. 

“We’re working really hard to attract students with the most talent, potential and ability from all backgrounds. But all too often students disadvantage themselves by choosing a combination of subjects at A-level which will not equip them with the right skills and knowledge for their preferred university course.” 

Notes to Editors

1. Informed Choices, the Russell Group guide to making decisions about post-16 education is available to download here.
2. The Russell Group’s facilitating subjects are: