It is mainly considered something of a back door to higher education or a last-chance saloon for students who have fallen short of their offers.

But with A Level results day on the horizon, the top boss of Norfolk's largest university has insisted it is not just these youngsters who can benefit from the clearing process.

David Maguire, vice-chancellor of the University of East Anglia, has challenged overachievers to also take advantage of the last-minute scramble for places after picking up their A Level results on Thursday.

Prof Maguire said: "Clearing is undoubtedly an important time of year for UEA and one we recognise requires a collected effort across the university.

"We are especially keen to hear from students who have done better than expected and wish to trade up to UEA."

From 8am on Thursday, as students begin anxiously tearing open their results envelope, a team of around 250 workers will be manning the phones at UEA and finalising places.

The university is also sending advisors into East Norfolk Sixth Form in Gorleston to offer places in person and answer questions about clearing - something it has never done before.

Prof Maguire added: "A Level results day can be a day of celebration for students and their families, but it can also create a lot of unanswered questions.

"Our staff members are trained and experienced in working in high education to be able to answer those questions and offer guidance for any student who may be feeling overwhelmed or interested in joining us in September." 

(Image: UEA)

Among those to take advantage of the clearing pathway last year was Lydiah Malova, who has just completed her first year in computer science at UEA.

She said: "Clearing is an opportunity, not a setback. If your results are not what you've expected - don't panic.

"It is a great opportunity to find a course that suits you."

For live coverage of A Level results day, visit the EDP website on Thursday, August 15.