Employers
Last updated on: 11/03/2008
Do employers think that A-levels are valuable?
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Absolutely, there is no doubt about that. They are a crucial indicator of potential and are highly regarded by employers, and are often the determining factor when choosing graduates for jobs. These are qualifications which are known and respected, according to the Confederation of British Industry in a statement to the BBC recently. The Director General of the Institute of Directors has stated in ‘AS and A levels: the official student guide to the system’ (published by the regulatory authorities) that: 'Employers know that A levels involve very demanding exams and recognise the work that has to go into their achievement. That is why good results provide a sound basis for a career or future learning. We wish you every success and assure you that your hard work will be worthwhile.'
I hope you can help. I am an employer and have received a CV from someone who lists two A level qualifications from 2001 with a grade 'N'. What does this mean? Have they passed or failed?
This is not a grade as such but an indication that this person just missed getting an A level grade in these subjects. They have not passed, but nearly did. This 'nearly' designation of an 'N' is no longer given and was last used in 2001. In the days of O level, students in this category were awarded a compensatory O level. You may find that the person in question is now a little bit more mature and would have performed better had that maturity come earlier.