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A levels are qualifications taken by students aged between 16 and 19. They are seen a vital qualifications if your child is looking to go to university and they are also highly valued by employers.
A levels are usually assessed through written examinations and coursework. However with subjects such as art, drama and music there are also practical examinations.
AS and A levels require students to be committed to their studies in order to achieve their qualifications. Your children will need to be prepared to take on the tasks set out in their lessons, as well as a range of additional reading and study at home.
Choosing A-level subjects can be a really tough time for some students. The choices they make now can have a big influence on what they go on to study at university, or what career path they take.
To help your children make the right A Level choices, an independent boarding college in Cardiff have put together the following advice for parents:
Support
As parents, it is important to support and advise your children through the A-level process. Help them to collate as much information as possible to assist with their decision making. Most importantly try not to put any pressure on your child and give them time and space to make their own choices.
Subjects
Explain to your child that it is important to choose the subjects that they enjoy the most and do well at. Take time to talk with your child about their favourite subjects, because enjoyment of a subject will lead to the best results.
Advice
It is important that your child feels like they are making an informed decision, so take them along to open evenings and ensure that they are asking the right questions to teachers. It may also help for your child to talk to older friends or relatives who have already been through this experience.
Coursework
Bear in mind that A-levels are a big jump from GCSEs, so the subjects that may seem easy to your child now, might not seem so easy at A-level. With this in mind, it is a good idea to do some research into the type of work that will be expected from each subject your child is considering. Many A level subjects require coursework and extended study outside of school hours.
University
If your child is interested in going to university or has a particular career interest, you could also do some research into qualification requirements. Certain university courses will look for specific A-levels, so it’s worth looking ahead before making any decisions.