YOUNG people collecting their A-level results today will have a package of support to cover all “eventualities”, the chairman of Bolton Learning Alliance has said as he moved to reassure students and their parents during this unprecedented time.

For the first time in history, young people will be awarded grades without having taken an exam.

Grades will be based on teacher assessment and moderation by exam boards leading to a feeling of uncertainty.

Paul Hodgkinson said the Bolton Learning Alliance has been working together with schools and colleges in Bolton to ensure the “right support mechanisms” are in place to guide students.

Late on Tuesday the Government made eleventh-hour changes to the way A-level and GCSE results will be assessed, announcing that students will be able to use their mock results to appeal if they are unhappy with the grades they are given.

Mr Hodgkinson said: “This time of year is a worrying time under normal circumstances and more so this year because it is completely untried.

“The eleventh hour guidance will add to the anxiety.”

He added: “Bolton Learning Alliance has been working with schools, colleges, the local authority, Connexions to ensure we have the right support mechanisms in place to cover all eventualities during this time.

“Connexions have a freephone number and their social media sites will be up and running first thing, staff will be on hand in schools.

“Naturally parents and young people are worried but we have a support package to cover all eventualities.

“Schools have been in contact with universities and the feedback is they will be flexible under these circumstances.”