How parents and carers can support their child through Clearing
18 June 2025
I’m Kylie, a mother and mature student studying Falmouth University's Fine Art MA (Online) after previously studying Fine Art BA(Hons) at Falmouth on campus.
My journey into higher education has been an interesting one. Before I found my place at Falmouth University, I’d already attempted to study at university twice.
At 19, I went through the Clearing process and enrolled on an Illustration course at Derby University. Although I decided to end my studies after the first year, I remained in Derby for a long time after. During that time, I met some of the most amazing people that I now consider family. Later, I applied for an Art Therapy course but wasn't accepted. These moments, though challenging, were stepping stones that led me to where I was always meant to be - an artist.
That’s why I’m sharing this - because, as a parent, I know how important it is to be there when your child is navigating an uncertain and emotional time like Clearing. Here’s how you can support them through the process.
Be open to unexpected opportunities
The Clearing process can lead to paths you hadn’t considered and that’s not a bad thing. Sometimes it isn’t clear why you’re being directed down a certain path but try to have trust in the process. Reassure your child that there’s no single right way to reach their goals. Coming back to university as an adult made me realise that it doesn’t matter how you get there. I’m incredibly proud of my achievements, and the missed opportunities and rejections I faced led me to exactly where I was supposed to be.
Offer reassurance and emotional support
As I was the first person in the family to study at university, at times it felt like a lonely process, and I struggled to know how to approach things correctly. Don’t underestimate the importance of support and try to reassure your child during this time. Being there as someone to talk to and offering to help with researching universities will take some of the pressure off them. Your support will encourage your child to find their voice and feel confident in their choices.
Help them to stay calm
Clearing can be stressful, so it’s important to help your child manage their emotions. I find that taking a walk, journaling, or practising breathing techniques can help to ground me, so encourage your child to try some of these tactics.
One exercise that has helped me is writing a list of my accomplishments and personal values. Reflecting on their personal qualities and experiences will increase self-awareness and boost confidence – both valuable resources when approaching something that might feel nerve wracking.
Help with research
Support your child in researching universities or courses by using the UCAS website or individual university websites. Ask questions like:
- What kind of environment do you want to study in?
- Would you prefer a big city or a coastal town?
- What’s important to you – course content, facilities, community?
Frame it as an exciting new adventure, not a backup plan. And remind them: most students who go through Clearing end up exactly where they’re meant to be.
Help prepare them to make the call
When it’s time to contact universities, I would recommend that your child does this themselves as it’s important that the university gets a clear picture of who they are. You can support by helping them prepare:
- Make a list of key questions
- Have their UCAS ID and points to hand
- Practise a short introduction with them if they feel nervous
Making a decision on which university to choose might feel like a lot of pressure so encourage your child to go with their gut instinct. This is the beginning of their journey into independence and trusting themselves is a big aspect of this. Talking to students already enrolled through the Unibuddy platform can also help provide real insight into university life.
Support with the move
Moving to a new place will feel both exciting and daunting so expect a few tears. Help them pack a few comforting items from home and consider sending a care package to them during the first few weeks of university. When I started, I was very homesick but once I made friends, I was so busy socialising, I barely remembered to call home!
Studying at Falmouth University changed my life. For the first time, I began to understand myself as an artist and what I could offer the world. The people around me were so encouraging and enthusiastic and I felt incredibly blessed to be part of such a supportive community.
To all the parents and carers out there, supporting your child through Clearing might feel daunting, but your calm presence and reassurance can make all the difference. Good luck to you and your child on this exciting journey!
You might also like
My accepted fashion portfolio for university
How to decide which offer to firmly accept in UCAS
My accepted graphic design portfolio for university
