GCSEs are about to take place and the time for choosing the next step up in education is not so far off. If your child is in this position right now, you may find that they are struggling a bit as it is the start of one of the biggest decisions they’ll make. They want to do something they enjoy but keep their options open too. But as a parent, you can’t help but wonder if A levels will even be the right decision for your child, given that there is so much choice when it comes to progression after secondary school. Here are some tips to help you figure it out.

Start by communicating with your child to figure out what it is they want. Some children don’t feel ready to even consider A levels, so try and understand their point of view before helping them make a decision. However, you may find that your child knows exactly what they’d like to do in the future, such as becoming a doctor or teacher. It may sound a step too far but being prepared is always great. Look into potential universities and check what the entry requirements for A level subjects for their desired degree. This will then help narrow down which A levels your child chooses to study for the next couple years.

Figure out what they enjoy. Some children may not entirely like the educational route of exams and studies and instead, may be a more hands on and practical learner. Goals such as patisserie chefs or hairdressers are also great careers that involve a lot of hard work to become great at. If you notice your child has a strong interest in something similar and is eager to make it their profession, look into courses and apprenticeships, both which are offered by colleges. These are just as effective as studying is still involved and creates a direct link to the working world. Those who choose apprenticeships can also progress onto qualifications that are equivalent to a degree, so the possibilities are endless. 

There’s always a route for every person, trust your child’s instincts as well as your own and allow them to find their way. 

Jenny Roy