How to Help Your Child Choose Their A-Levels

Choosing A-Levels is one of the first big decisions your child will make in their educational journey. The choices they make now can set the course for their future career, university path, or other post-school options. As a parent, it’s important to guide and support them, while also recognising that it’s their decision to make. Here’s how you can help them navigate this crucial process.

1. Encourage Self-Reflection and Future Planning

Before diving into specific subjects, help your child reflect on their interests, strengths, and long-term goals. Encourage them to ask themselves:

• What am I passionate about? Understanding what they enjoy can make A-Level study more engaging and sustainable.
• Which subjects am I good at? Strengths can often indicate where they’ll excel, which is key when it comes to academic performance.
• What do I want to do in the future? A clear career goal or university aspiration can help narrow down the right subject choices.

While it’s tempting to focus on what they “should” study, remind them that A-Levels are a stepping stone to the future. The decisions they make now should align with their broader ambitions.

2. Know the Subject Prerequisites

Some university courses and careers have specific A-Level requirements. Help your child research any entry criteria for university courses they’re interested in, as well as apprenticeships or other career pathways.

For example:

• STEM careers (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) usually require A-Levels in subjects like Maths, Physics, or Chemistry.
• Humanities courses might require subjects like English Literature, History, or a modern foreign language.
• Creative fields may favour Art, Design, or Media Studies.

It’s important to check university prospectuses and speak with teachers or careers advisors to ensure your child’s choices align with their future goals.

3. Consider the Balance Between Academic Rigor and Enjoyment

A-Levels are demanding, and it’s essential for your child to enjoy the subjects they choose. Encourage them to consider both their interest and the workload involved. Some questions to consider include:

• How do I feel about the subject matter? Can they imagine spending the next two years studying the subject?
• What is the workload like? Some subjects are more theory-based, while others might involve more practical work, projects, or coursework.
• How will I manage the pressure? Some subjects are more intensive in terms of exams or assignments; your child needs to feel confident they can manage the workload.

A good mix of subjects both ones they enjoy and those that challenge them is often the best strategy.

4. Avoid Choosing Based on Peer Pressure

Many students feel pressure to pick subjects based on what their friends are choosing or what seems popular. Remind your child that A-Level choices should reflect their individual strengths and aspirations. What works for one student might not be the right fit for them.

Encourage them to trust their own instincts, even if it means making a less conventional choice.

5. Seek Advice from Teachers and Careers Advisors

Teachers, tutors, and careers advisors are invaluable resources. Encourage your child to:

• Have a conversation with subject teachers: Teachers can provide insight into what’s involved in each subject, the style of teaching, and what the prospects are for students who take it.
• Attend careers guidance sessions: Schools often host talks and workshops that help students better understand their options.
• Consider taster sessions or open days: Some schools offer taster lessons, or universities run events to give prospective students a feel for different subjects.

These conversations can provide practical and informed perspectives that will guide your child towards making a more informed choice.

6. Consider the Practicalities of Subject Combinations

When choosing A-Levels, it’s important to think about how the subjects will work together. Some subjects complement each other well, while others might not.

For example:

• Maths and Further Maths are a natural combination if your child is aiming for a career in engineering or a related field.
• History and Politics or Economics and Business Studies could be a good fit for students interested in social sciences or law.

However, combinations like two sciences or two humanities might be difficult if your child struggles with time management or prefers a more varied curriculum.

Make sure to discuss the practicality of their choices and how different subjects will balance with each other in terms of time and effort.

7. Keep an Open Mind About Non-Traditional Subjects

While core subjects like English, Maths, and Sciences remain popular choices, more schools are offering non-traditional A-Level options like Drama, Media Studies, Psychology, Philosophy, and Sociology. These subjects may be just as valuable and may spark your child’s interest in a field they hadn’t considered.

Remind them that it’s okay to explore alternative subjects, if they are aware of how the subject fits with their long-term goals.

8. Talk About the Impact of Their Choices

A-Level results will open or close doors to university courses, careers, and apprenticeships. Help your child understand the long-term impact of their choices and consider:

• University entry requirements: Check the UCAS website or specific university websites for the necessary A-Level subjects.
• Apprenticeship pathways: Some apprenticeships may have specific subject requirements, so it’s important to check with relevant companies or organisations.
• Alternative routes: For those not aiming for university, A-Levels can lead to vocational qualifications or a variety of careers.

9. Provide Emotional Support

Choosing A-Levels can feel like a lot of pressure for young students. If your child is unsure or anxious, offer emotional support. Sometimes, it’s less about the choice itself and more about the fear of making the wrong decision. Reassure them that they’re not locked into their choices, if things don’t go as planned, there are always ways to adapt in the future.

Final Thoughts

Choosing A-Levels is a significant decision, but it doesn’t have to be a daunting one. With your support, your child can make informed decisions that will lead them toward success. Encourage them to explore their options, follow their interests, and take the time to reflect on their goals. With patience, thoughtfulness, and a bit of research, they will be well-equipped to make the best choices for their future.