Friday 25 January 2013

Matching sixth form subject choices to university course ambitions


Local schools are currently working with year 11 students to advise on subject choices for sixth form. The Russell Group recently highlighted that students with ambitions to study at university should focus on subjects which are generally recognised for being academically rigorous, advising students to avoid taking too many ‘soft’ subjects such as Media or Business Studies, Photography or Art and Design. Just how therefore do teenagers decide on the right subjects to suit their individual interests, talents and career ambitions?

Enjoyment of a subject is directly linked to success, so choose subjects in which you have previously attained good grades and in which you find the teacher inspiring. 

Listen to advice from your school. Do they feel that you have the ability to take your chosen subjects to the next level?  

Review the school’s past results in each subject, as these will usually indicate the quality of teaching in this area. 

Consider the assessment format for the subjects you wish to study. Coursework, project work or modular assessment may suit some more than end of course examinations.

Sixth form courses should be a step along the pathway to a job or further education. It is important, to have a general idea of where you are heading and an end goal, with target grades for a course of interest, helps with motivation. 

Some university courses require study of specific subjects prior to entry. It is best to research or seek advice to ensure you are not narrowing your course options through making the wrong subject choices now. Studying at least two or three facilitating subjects such as Maths, English (Literature), Sciences, Geography, History or Languages (Classical and Modern) will ensure you are able to cope with a university course, building on knowledge gained in sixth form. Your fourth option might then encompass a subject which you study more for enjoyment or to broaden your horizons.

For advice on choosing the right subjects for sixth form, applying to university or planning your future career, visit our website
www.independenteducationconsultants.co.uk

For advice on choosing a boarding or day school visit our website

For information about becoming a guardian family, caring for an international student at boarding school, visit our website


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