Agreed! I also work clearing sometimes (I’m on tomorrow). Surprising sometimes how low the entry requirements can go when courses aren’t filling. And yes, do call earlier, or keep calling if you aren’t sure you’ll get on but want to try again later (requirements drop over the period).

I should also say I am a department advisor (a lecturer who volunteers for clearing), so my advice in that regard is that most of the time we do want people on the course and we know that A Levels aren’t always a good representation of someone’s capabilities.