Madam, - I refer to the front- page report in your edition of January 10th, "TCD criticised for reserving places for A-level students" and to the next day's editorial on the matter.
Trinity College introduced a revised policy for scoring A-level applications, which will be phased into effect as of the 2005 competition, and fully implemented in 2006. In 2006, A-level applications will be assessed based on the new scoring system for four A-level subjects or three A-level subjects and one Advanced Subsidiary subject.
However, as an interim measure, the old scoring system will be in place for the 2005 competition and applicants with four A-levels will take precedence over those with three A-levels. The policy change is being phased into place to allow for those A-level students who may be disadvantaged by the timing of the new policy. However, in order to ensure a more equitable distribution of places across A-level and other EU applications, Trinity will operate the principle of proportionality in 2005. Contrary to your report, this does not mean that TCD will be reserving places for A-level candidates.
In some of our high-demand courses, the number of places offered to and accepted by A-level applications has been disproportionate to the overall number of A-level applications to those courses. For example, 19 per cent of applications to English Studies were from A-level students in 2004, yet over 50 per cent of places on this course are allocated to A-level students. This problem arises from the fact that equivalences across qualifications can only be defined in broad terms and cannot take into account the differences in the overall assessment and grading structures between the two examination systems. Competition for university places in English-speaking countries is increasing, and it is essential that equivalences across second-level systems are addressed at national and European levels.
Trinity's policy changes are proactive and positive, addressing (i) the circumstances that lead to over-representation of A-level students in some high-demand courses and (ii) in 2005, the disadvantages that the timing of the policy may cause for some A-level applicants. Through offering places to A-level applicants on the principle of proportionality, we are creating a more equitable competitive environment in which all EU applications can compete.
Your Editorial comments that it would have been less controversial if TCD had acted in co-operation with other third-level institutions to work on a new formula for A-level applicants. Trinity is working with other Irish universities in this regard. However, as we receive 70 per cent of all A-level applications to the Irish universities, there is a social and moral imperative to act swiftly in the interest of fairness to the 2005 and 2006 prospective applicants. We are not afraid of controversy when our actions are in the interest of the public, and welcome a frank, unbiased debate on a matter of national interest.
Trinity College is taking a lead, and will continue to do so, in what is essentially a very complex matter of establishing equivalences and ensuring parity of representation on our high-demand courses across European second-level qualifications. - Yours, etc.,
Prof JOHN A. MURRAY, The Senior Lecturer, Trinity College, Dublin 2.