Sometimes adolescents don’t choose the best path – or even know what they want to do in the future. A combination of uncertainty and lack of foresight can result in odd A-Level choices! Choosing between college and apprenticeship is an option so it’s worth exploring both options carefully before making any decisions.
Choosing A Levels for a Career in Medicine
If your child is considering a career in medicine, education or law make certain to double-check what the A-level requirements are and what additional training might entail. It’s also important to talk to their teacher to see if this is a realistic option – these subjects are not for everyone. Your child might already have a general idea of the subjects they want to study and this is, of course, a great thing but it should still be discussed.
Choose the A Levels they’ll need to get into University
Most students will study 3 A-level subjects; this is plenty though some students are capable of more. Choosing the right A level is very important if your child wants to study a subject at university, and even more important if they have a specific university in mind.
Choose Subjects They’re Good at and Enjoy
While you may have helped your child decide which GCSE exams to take, as they get older, decisions around their education and career become difficult. While all parents want to help their children succeed, it is not always helpful to push your own ideas onto them. Let them lead the way. It will make the transition a lot easier if your child chooses subjects that they are good at and which they enjoy. Don’t let them slip into doing subjects because they think they should or worse, because their friend is doing it!
Discuss A level Choices with School
When teens know their parents take school seriously, they will also take it seriously. Discuss their options regularly as the critical period approaches. Do your research and speak to their tutors. Parents can play a vital role in helping teenagers learn in school by being informed and providing some support and guidance.
A good school will also hold information sessions for parents and pupils; at these, teachers are often available afterward for questions and further information. This secondary school in Bath places a lot of emphasis on discussion with parents and the results are reflective of that. Your child’s parent’s evening is another good opportunity to talk about their options for the future.
