The GCSE choices made by your teenager can have a long-term impact for their further education, and even their career choices down the road.
Navigating GCSE options can be a murky business. You want to give your child the best chance in life, so they need to know the best GCSEs to take to achieve their life goals.
Which GSCE options are compulsory?
Maths, English and Science are “core subjects” in the UK due to their importance for future education and employment opportunities.
Some schools may have other subjects that are compulsory, so be sure to ask your child’s teacher about the rules at their school.
So how many GCSEs should you take?
Most colleges like students to have a minimum of five GCSEs, including English Language and Maths at grade 4 (C) or above, while sixth forms tend to have slightly higher entry requirements, usually around six GCSEs at grade 4 or higher.
Whilst its difficult to go to university without GCSEs, there are many apprenticeships without GCSEs available out there, so there really is a career option for everyone.
How should I choose what options are best for me?
Whether your child has dreamt about their future career path since year 5 or has no idea at all, there are some key tips for how to pick GCSE options. And as with most things, planning early will pay off.
When discussing the options, choose times when your child isn’t tired or overwhelmed to have the conversation. The trick is not to panic or “force” your child into decision making before they’re ready.
A great tip is to “work backwards.”. For example, if they’re interested in becoming a forensic scientist then research the best University courses for that career and see which A-levels are needed.
Certain A-levels will often require corresponding GSCEs with a grade 5 or above and this often helps you choose the GCSE options. However, each sixth form and college differ, so don’t be shy about contacting them and asking for any specific entry requirements for A-levels at this stage.
Which are the best GCSEs to pick?
Ultimately, the best GCSEs are ones that your child can pass, that they enjoy and that will enable them to get to the career of their choice.
What GCSE subjects there are to choose from will vary slightly from school to school and deciding what are the best subjects to choose for GCSE will be different for each child.
Getting further support
If your child struggles in a chosen subject this needn’t be barrier to them continuing with it.
We’re here to provide quality tuition to help your child succeed. We can give both one to one and group support, both online and face to face across the entire GCSE curriculum.
When your child finally takes their options, you both want to feel empowered and informed and know they’re achievable too. So, plan early, stay calm and!
