To appeal or not to appeal

[HappyMum2day]

So, GCSE results came and went - and sadly he didn't hit the magic mark - however, the prospectus suggests that you need C's in Math and English and a minimum of a B in the topics you wish to take on for AS/A Level. He's achieved that. I could give you the whole tale of what happened in the run up to the exams which is a lot for any 15 year old to bear (also an August baby) but that isn't the discussion. We all know life is tough but he had a conditional offer, they knew English was going to stay a C and he had a great result in his chosen topic. So, do I sit back and accept the offer a BTEC or do I appeal to the school based on the circumstances? The sad thing is that he was invited to the Head Teacher's office and was told he'd be a credit to the Sixth Form. Thank you in advance for your advice :)

Were the school aware of the extenuating circumstances and were the exam boards informed (if relevant)? I would email the Head and ask as he has a high opinion of your son. Otherwise look around for an FE college that will allow your son to do A levels. I would also discuss what your son wants to do after A levels - it could be that Btecs are the better option.

Thank you for your message - yes, I had informed the school, I'm not sure whether exam boards were informed as I left it with the school and their judgement. However, the school have offered to keep him and have offered a BTEC solution. The situation is, he's got it in him to achieve his A levels. I'm sure I'll catch the wrath from many, but looking at various forums and speaking to industry insiders - BTEC's simply aren't regarded in the same manner as A levels despite many good reviews and increased uptake.

Not sure what you mean by the 'magic mark'. Was it he number of A* to C passes being asked for overall? Or do they use some kind of point scoring system?

What do you mean by "magic mark"?