Q1)
How many GCSE's do you need to study AS Level, A level or a Level 3 course such as a National Diploma.
A)
4 subjects at grade C+ in order to study 3 'AS' subjects
5 subjects at grade C+ in order to study 4 'AS' subjects
4 subjects at grade C+ in order to study for a National Diploma.
Q2)
I don't know what I want to do when I leave school!!
A)
Don't worry!! Many people don't know what they want to do at this stage, there are many opportunities. Ask your careers teacher to organise an interview for you with a careers adviser from the careers service. As well as giving you general advice, the service has many computer programmes that may help you focus your ideas.
Q3)
If I choose to do a National Certificate or Diploma, will I still be able to get into university?
A)
YES!! A National Certificate or Diploma (which has replaced an Advanced GNVQ/ AVCE) is (18 units) equivalent to 2 or 3 'A' levels. Some universities may ask for an additional 'AS' or 'A' level. You can discuss your options with a careers advisor from the careers service or your careers teacher.
Q4)
Do I need specific 'A' levels to study certain courses at university?
A)
If you are planning on going to university, you will need to find out what qualifications are needed for the course that you are interested in. for example, to study English, most university's expect you to have an 'A' level in either English Literature or English Language.
Q5)
What is on offer to me educationally after I finish my GSCE's?
A)
Basically there are 2 options:
1. You can study for 'AS' and then 'A' levels
2. You can work towards BTEC National Certificates and Diplomas/ other vocational courses at the College of Further Education
Q6)
How do I decide what is best for me?
A)
There is lots to consider:
- What are your strengths and weaknesses?
- What do you need to do to further your career ambitions?
- What type of learning suits you best?
You can have a chat with a Careers Adviser by contacting the Careers Service on T: 733044 or ask your Careers Teacher at school
Q7)
What must I do next?
A)
If you are planning to continue in full-time education at the end of Yr11, you will need to complete an application form. This will be given to you at school by your careers teacher. This needs to be handed in after you have been to the open days in March.
You will also have an interview with the Grammar School or College of Further Education. Once they have seen your application form and if they make you an offer of a place, you will need to wait until your final GCSE results come out in August to confirm your place.