Have you thought
about what sort of course you want to do?
-
The more you like
a subject, the better you're likely to
do!
-
Think about what
you’re good at and where it will lead to before making a
decision.
-
Want to try
something new? You don't need to have any previous experience to
learn a brand new subject.
-
Find out if the
structure of the course suits you. For example, is it continuous
assessment or are there exams?
-
Will your chosen
subject be taught in a classroom or in workshops? Do you have a
preference?
What
about qualifications?
You can choose
from a range of qualifications in different subjects and at
different levels. For more information on courses and
where to study, talk to
your
Personal Adviser, read What Next Further
Education or It's Your Choice magazine (ask in
your school Connexions library) or visit the
It's Your Choice website where
they also have a few quizzes!
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General -
for example, A levels
- You can study for A or
AS levels at a school or college.
- There's a wide range of subjects to
choose from including vocational choices.
- Full A levels are made up of six units:
three AS units and three A2 units (usually taken in the second
year). An AS level carries half the points of a full A level in
UCAS tariff points.
- Some vocational A levels may have more
flexible entry requirements.
- AEAs (Advanced Extension
Award) are taken on top of an A level by students likely to get top
grades at A level.
- You can do GCSEs or
vocational qualifications and A levels at the same
time.
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Work-related
- There are many work-related
qualifications at different levels that you can do at school or
college.
- These include vocational GCSEs,
diplomas and
A levels, certificates,
awards and diplomas that prepare
you for jobs, such as leisure and tourism, engineering or
construction. Some of the more well-known qualifications
include
BTEC and City &
Guilds.
- Make sure you choose something which is
suitable to your interests and abilities and which provides you
with an appropriate progression
route.
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Work-based
- NVQs (National
Vocational Qualifications) are designed for people wanting to work
in a particular industry.
- You are assessed by carrying out tasks in
a work environment, but may also have to do written work and exams
at college.
- There are five levels. To find out
more about levels look at the
qualifications
table.
- You’ll be working towards an
NVQ if you're doing
an
Apprenticeship.
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Any of
the qualifications above may lead towards further study at
university.
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Key
Skills
- Key Skills are done
alongside A levels or other qualifications and training after Year
11.
- Employers consider Key Skills to be very
important.
- Key Skills count towards the
UCAS
tariff if you're hoping to go to
university.
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Useful
links:
Aimhigher
Qualifications
explained by Aimhigher
Nottinghamshire.
Fetch!
Links through to
qualification websites.
It's Your Choice
Online
interactive magazine.
