Letter: When A-grades are just not good enough

Sir: Like Stella Faulkner (13 May) I was rejected by all the universities I applied to, back in 1976, to study English or Philosophy (Cambridge, York, Sussex). As I had two As and a B at A-level, and was not, as far as I know, personally obnoxious, this outcome was slightly unexpected. I was finally accepted by St Andrews through the clearing system; a much nicer place to go to.

I am now a lecturer in philosophy at Keele University. There was evidently a mistake somewhere, I hope not at St Andrews or Keele. (No, I am not admissions tutor in the philosophy department yet, but my turn will no doubt come.)

Yours sincerely,

ANDY HAMILTON

Keele University

13 May