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Three universities in the East Midlands have joined with schools and colleges to sign a unique accord, writes Tony Tysome.

Representatives of De Montfort and Loughborough universities joined college and school representatives at the University of Leicester to sign the New Progression Accord.

The universities have agreed to grant an enhanced offer of 30 points under the new Universities and Colleges Admissions System points tariff - or a one A-level grade reduction - in return for A-level students passing certain units.

The units are: careers - encompassing career education and management; enrichment - taking in community and employment and a higher education taster course; and wider key skills - involving working with others and improving their own learning and performance.