Copland Community School error costs pupils university places 19 August 2013 Last updated at 09:34 By Beth Rose BBC News Three students have lost their university places after a north-west London school gave them the wrong information about their A-level course. Students at Copland Community School were told the AQA business studies course equated to two A-levels. Two years later, on results day, they learned it was only worth one A-level. Head teacher Dr Richard Marshall said: "This should never have happened." He said the school had helped one of the students to find a university place. Very bad reputation Harrison Mathias, who lost a place at the University of Bedfordshire to study business, said all universities he had approached had now turned him down. He said: "I can't get into university and I don't know what to do." He said he was concerned none of the teachers seemed to be aware of the error. I'm so stressed I just don't know what to do and I don't want this to happen to anyone else. I am investigating how this happened and will take appropriate action End Quote Dr Richard Marshall Head teacher I did work hard and I had good grades, and we all did so much for this school because it had a very bad reputation. Copland Community School was recently judged by Ofsted as inadequate and requiring special measures. It was also banned from appointing newly-qualified teachers. In the 2013 report, Ofsted said: "The sixth form is inadequate. Too many students do not achieve what they should in their AS-level examinations and do not carry on to A-level. Serious error Dr Marshall, who was appointed head teacher following the inspection, said: "I have apologised unreservedly to these pupils and their families - this should never have happened. We have managed to help one of the pupils find a university place and are trying to do the same for our other two students. I have assured the pupils and their families that I will not let this matter rest. I am investigating how this happened and will take appropriate action. Brent Council added: "We sympathise with the pupils affected by this serious error. An investigation will take place at the school to identify where responsibility lies and appropriate action will be taken. We are working closely with the new head to address failings in the school.