Not Sure About University? Clearing 2025 Offers a Smarter, More Practical Alternative
- The Event School London
- 6 days ago
- 4 min read
As thousands of students across the UK reconsider their next steps during Clearing 2025, many are searching for something more relevant, more focused—and more connected to the real world—than traditional university study.
For those with a passion for action, experiences, creativity, and people, The Event School London offers a premium, career-focused alternative that prepares students not just to study events, but to step directly into the industry with confidence.
A Contemporary Choice for a Changing World
University is no longer the only route to a meaningful and successful career. Increasingly, school leavers and graduates are looking for alternatives that are more practical, immersive, and employment-driven.
The Higher Diploma in Event Management at The Event School London is one such alternative - ideal for those who want to gain specialist skills, build an impressive industry network, and become career-ready in just one year.
Taught in the heart of London’s dynamic Royal Victoria Docks one of the UK's leading event destinations, this one-year course offers direct access to the UK’s leading event professionals. It's the perfect option for students who:
Have completed A Levels (Sixth Form or BTEC, T Levels etc) and want to move straight into a career-focused programme
Are rethinking university and want a more practical, hands-on approach
Have already completed a degree in business, marketing, arts, media or similar and want to add a sought-after specialism in event management
Real Experience. Real Employers. Real Results.
Our graduates don’t just leave with a qualification—they leave with experience, industry insight, and a strong professional portfolio.
With a 92% employment rate into the events industry, students are quickly moving into exciting roles across venues, hotel meeting departments, festivals, event agencies, luxury brands, corporate conferences, weddings, and experiential marketing.
The course blends practical learning with personalised support and industry engagement:
Live event planning and delivery, industry practice and internship
Excursions, industry events, networking and site visits across London
Guest lectures from senior professionals at leading London and global brands
Personal career coach and academic tutor
CV and portfolio coaching for the modern events job market
Trusted by Parents. Chosen by Future Leaders.
For many parents, Clearing can feel like a second-best option. But at The Event School London, it’s an opportunity to pivot toward a smarter, more relevant path.
We understand the importance of both employability and confidence.
That’s why we provide a premium, nurturing learning environment, small group teaching, and individual coaching—all underpinned by a strong focus on professionalism and career readiness.
Study in London. Build a Future Without Limits.
Studying in London isn’t just about location—it’s about immersion in one of the most vibrant, opportunity-rich cities in the world.
Our students are at the centre of it all, learning in venues that host the UK’s largest exhibitions, consumer shows, and corporate events.
It's a chance to live and learn in an environment that mirrors the ambition and fast pace of the industry itself.
Apply Now - Direct Application to The Event School London
Whether you're a school leaver ready to jump into the world of events or a graduate seeking to specialise, the Higher Diploma in Event Management offers a premium alternative to university - with results that speak for themselves.
Apply Now for a 29 September 2025 start date.
Secure your future in events. No need to wait for clearing to start - apply now.
Alternatives to university: What you need to know
Commonly asked FAQs
1. Is it risky not to go to university?
Not at all - especially if you choose a professional, industry-focused alternative. Today’s employers increasingly value practical experience, specialist knowledge, and strong communication skills over academic theory alone. Courses like the Higher Diploma in Event Management offer direct links to industry, hands-on learning, and faster routes to employment. It’s a different path, not a lesser one.
2. Will I still be able to get a good job without a degree?
Yes. 92% of our graduates secure roles with top event agencies, venues, and international brands - often within weeks if not months of completing their course. Our curriculum is designed with employability in mind, combining live projects, career coaching, and real industry exposure. You’ll graduate with more than a qualification—you’ll have a professional portfolio and the confidence to succeed.
3. What kind of qualifications can I earn outside of university?
You can earn recognised, career-focused qualifications that are respected across the events and hospitality sector. For example, our Higher Diploma in Event Management is a one-year, full-time course that provides both in-depth knowledge and practical training. It's ideal for launching a career straight after school or adding a specialism post-degree.
4. Will I miss out on the ‘university experience’?
Choosing an alternative path means your experience will be different—but not lacking. Our students often describe their year at The Event School London as transformational. While you won't have the large uni campus experience with societies and libraries etc - you’ll study in a vibrant city, build strong friendships, work on exciting real-world projects, gain extensive practical skills and graduate ready to step confidently into your career. It's a professional, purpose-driven experience with just as much personal growth.
5. How do I know if an alternative to university is right for me?
If you're someone who learns best by doing, who wants to fast-track your entry into a creative, people-centred industry, and who values practical over purely academic learning—then yes, this could be the right fit. Speak to our admissions team or watch our student videos to help you decide.
What about finance? With The Event School London, you’re paying for just one year of fees, and therefore just one year of living and accommodation costs in London. A university degree is typically three years—meaning three years of tuition fees, accommodation, and living expenses. UK students can spread their payments in monthly instalments, with no interest, only a £20 per month administration fee. Or check your eligibility for a scholarship with subsidised fees
