If you have a child in year 9, you will probably have heard of GCSE options. Maybe that is a long way off yet, but it is still something that you and your child can discuss for when the time comes. It can be a confusing time for you and your child, and the options that are taken at GCSE can have a big impact on the future. So what is it all about?
Basically, the core subjects – Maths English and Science are essential – these are considered the most important subjects by the government and they must be carried on into GCSE level. They are also important should your child wish to carry on to A level or university and are always looked on favourably by employers, so they are the really big ones. If you think that your child could benefit from a little help, these subjects are the ones to help with. There are many ways in which you can help – spend extra time with them on homework, maybe look at getting a professional tutor, or maybe an app to help children read better such as mywordbuddy.com can be a great help. Even if your child is a long way away from GCSEs it is good to get ahead for when the time comes!
After the three main subjects, there are the languages – for example most schools offer French German or Spanish and some schools state that these are essential also – they are certainly a very good thing to learn, as businesses grow increasingly global. It also makes it easier if your child intends to go travelling in the future, it will certainly make it easier to get around!
The humanities, geography and history, are both subjects to consider – for example a career in tourism would be greatly boosted by a geography GCSE, or maybe your child is a budding archaeologist? Then history would be the obvious choice. Career aside, both subjects are great for opening up the world around us and for delving into the past.
Art subjects, like Drama, Art and Music for creative kids, offering a creativity outlet, especially if your child is very talented at one in particular, make sure that you put that one down on the choice form, and take up every extra-curricular activity involving that subject as you never know what opportunities it can lead to!
If you need to know more about any of the subjects or courses that the school has to offer, don’t hesitate to contact them, and remember it is never too early to start thinking about it!