PHONES have begun buzzing at the South's colleges and universities as anxious students seek last minute places on courses.

Southampton University is running a clearing hotline despite a go-slow by some admissions tutors in the Association of University Teachers. Staff are handling more than 5,000 calls an hour through some 20 dedicated lines.

Angela Milln, of the university's admissions office, said: "This can be a worrying time for those who are desperately seeking a university place, but we aim to help people find the courses that are appropriate for them.

"It's important to think flexibly and to consider courses related to your initial choices."

Places still exist on courses including archaeology, art and design, history, music, philosophy, and economics.

King Alfred's College, Winchester, has also opened up a range of options for clearing students including degrees and HNDs.

Deputy admissions officer Ann Childs urged sixth formers not to panic if they have failed to gain their desired grades.

She said: "Although you'll probably feel that time is not on your side, you do have enough time to consider all the clearing listings and the advice given in the media.

"Make a considered choice - choose an institution which suits you best in terms of course, vicinity and accommodation. Spend time exploring all the course options which are open to you."

Mrs Childs added that King Alfred's had a number of funding schemes available for students worried about the costs of higher education.

The college is also holding an open day tomorrow with academic and admissions staff available from 9.30am to 2pm.

Southampton Institute is boasting one of the country's biggest clearing hotlines.

Staff will man a round-the-clock service until 4pm tomorrow with the number available during office hours until September 23.

Prospective students can attend open days at the Institute on August 26, September 2, September 9, and September 16.

It doesn't have to be all gloom and doom

Failed to make the grade for university or college Don't panic - that's the message from one of the South's leading careers consultants.

Barbara Buffton, author of the Which Guide to Choosing a Career, says the first thing to do is to stay calm.

The Wimborne-based expert said: "Be positive - you have loads of options. It doesn't have to be doom and gloom. Universities and colleges want you as much as you want them."

Barbara's tips on clearing:

If you have only narrowly missed grades it's still worth contacting your first choice. They may still accept you.

Otherwise, go through clearing. You will be sent a form automatically with full instructions. If you need any help contact your local authority or school careers adviser.

Research all the courses that are of interest to you. Consider doing a combination course, but make sure it is something you really want.

Make a shortlist of institutions. Phone and speak to each admissions tutor. Have your UCAS number and clearing entry form handy.

CLEARING HELPLINES

NATIONAL: Department for Education and Employment - 0800 7319133 UCAS, the Universities and Colleges Admission Service - 01242227788 BBC - 0800 101901

LOCAL: Bournemouth University - 01202 524111 Chichester Institute of Higher Education - 01243 816001 King Alfred's College, Winchester - 01962 827234 Southampton University (including New College) - 01703 595959 Portsmouth University - 02392 848484 Southampton Institute - 0800 847800

ON-LINE: The University and College Admissions Service has an on-line information service with access to many courses through-out the UK. Users can reserve places via e-mail or phone after visiting the site at http://www.student-world.co.uk. Links to UCAS are also possible through www.studentuk.com and www.ucas.ac.uk. Information on student finance and gap years can be found at www.bbc.co.uk/education/choice. Clearing advice is also available at www.gabbitas.co.uk.

Converted for the new archive on 25 January 2001. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.