As GCSE pupils work through their courses, they face the first real decision of their educational lives: what do to next. Will they continue their current subjects to A Level? Will they take new subjects, as of yet unstudied? This choice will not only shape the next two years of academic study but will also influence future university applications and career paths. In this blog, David Hodgkinson, Director of Coaching at Highgrove Education, provides insight into evaluating A levels, considering career goals, and building essential skills and attributes for the future. By considering market trends such as UCAS applications, increasing competition for certain degrees, and the demand for versatile skills, pupils can make informed decisions about their academic and career pathways.
Understanding Your Interests and Goals
Before researching specific A level options, start by reflecting on your interests and strengths. Remember that a school curriculum is often relatively narrow, so you need to look at your interests beyond the classroom and consider what fires you up, be that areas of academic study, sport, music or other activities.
When thinking about academic subjects, look at what you like to study. Are there topics you have researched independently? Did you enjoy calculating and problem-solving, or more analytical thinking about literature and people? What skills have you developed through extracurricular activities? Keeping a journal or tracking these insights can provide valuable clarity.
When thinking longer term, talk to people who work in areas which might interest you, and find out what they do day to day – it is important to think about what you would like to know about, what you would like to do, and what sort of people you would like to work with.
Using a coach or mentor can also be helpful at this stage. Coaches can guide you through self-assessment exercises, help you articulate your goals, and provide tailored advice on subject combinations that align with your aspirations.
Exploring A level Options and Career Routes
Your choice of A levels will depend in part on your intended university course or career route, as well as your personal interests. Here are some considerations for different fields:
Medicine
If you aspire to a career in medicine, you will typically need an A level in Chemistry, and often Biology, Maths or Physics. These subjects form the foundation for medical school entry requirements and will prepare you for the rigorous academic challenges ahead. If you do not meet the entry requirements for your chosen university, you simply will not get an offer, so it is essential that you check what is required and keep your options as open as possible. For Medicine you will also need to consider the Medical entrance examination, UCAT, for some courses.
Law
Law does not require specific A level subjects. Universities value a strong academic profile, so focus on subjects you enjoy and excel in. Essay-based subjects like History, English Literature, or even Politics can be excellent choices to develop critical thinking and argumentation skills. For Law you will also need to consider the Law entrance examination, LNAT, for some courses.
Creative Arts
For pupils with a passion for creativity, subjects like Art, Drama, Photography, and Media Studies can be combined with more traditional options like English or History. This balance ensures you develop both creative expression and analytical skills, opening doors to careers in the arts, media, or creative industries. When looking at these courses, look carefully at which options a school is teaching to see how you can best express your own interest and talents through the course.
STEM Fields
Mathematics is a foundational discipline for many other areas of study. Subjects such as Physics and Computer Science are essential for engineering, technology, and science-related degrees. It is worth remembering that whether or not the course requires a qualification in these specific subjects, the course itself will often require an aptitude for and knowledge of these subjects. If you enjoy them at GCSE and A Level, it is a good indicator that you will thrive using this knowledge at degree level. Combining STEM with subjects like Economics or Geography can provide additional breadth, especially for careers in sustainability or environmental science, especially in a world where science and technology are increasingly interacting with environmental concerns.
Humanities
If you’re interested in areas like people – how they think and how they interact with others – consider subjects like Psychology, Sociology or Geography. These will help you develop a deep understanding of human behaviour, global issues, and cultural dynamics.
Languages
The ability to speak a language or languages to a high level is a valuable one which will enable you to work effectively with people around the globe. Although there are increasingly powerful translation tools, which may appear to make the knowledge of languages a thing of the past, this is not so. To be able to communicate with others, it is important to understand the detail of their language and culture – this will support effective interactions and mutual understanding, which are essential for any area of life. Opportunities to visit a country, and to engage with its literature and film are also enriching and help you to see the world in a different light.
Exploring the EPQ
The Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) is an increasingly popular option for pupils looking to enhance their academic profile. This qualification allows you to explore a specific interest or question in depth, providing flexibility to complement your chosen A levels. It can also be taken part-time online, making it a great option for pupils seeking to balance their academic workload or explore subjects not available at their current school.
The EPQ is highly valued in UCAS applications and personal statements, as it demonstrates independent research, critical thinking, and time management skills. Some university courses even include the EPQ in their entry requirements or lower grade offers for pupils who achieve high marks. Whether you’re passionate about a niche topic or want to develop skills that align with your career goals, the EPQ is worth considering.
Building Skills for the Future
Beyond academic choices, it is important to consider the skills and attributes that will set you apart in the world. Employers and universities value candidates who demonstrate:
- Empathy: Understanding and valuing diverse perspectives.
- Global Collaboration: The ability to work effectively across cultures.
- Creativity: Thinking innovatively and solving problems.
- Resilience: Overcoming challenges and adapting to change.
- Leadership: Motivating others and showing initiative.
These skills can be developed through super-curricular activities like academic clubs, volunteering, or online courses. Participation in activities like drama, sports, or Model United Nations also helps build teamwork, communication, and leadership skills.
The Importance of Coaching and Support
Deciding on A levels is a significant step, and it is important to seek guidance, and to listen to your own thoughts, feelings and sense about next steps. Coaches and mentors can:
- Provide a structured approach to your decision-making.
- Help you weigh the pros and cons of different subject combinations.
- Suggest ways to build a broad set of experiences to complement your academic profile.
Online schools can also offer flexibility for pupils looking to study part-time or take additional A levels not offered at their current school. This can be a valuable option for those seeking to tailor their education to their unique goals and interests.
Summary
Choosing A levels is about more than just academic interests – it’s about lining up your choices with your future goals, personal strengths, and the skills you want to develop. Here are some final tips:
- Reflect on your interests and strengths, using a coach or mentor if needed.
- Consider career pathways and subject requirements for university courses.
- Explore a mix of academic and creative subjects to build a well-rounded profile.
- Look into the EPQ to explore a specific interest and stand out in applications.
- Develop essential skills through super-curricular activities, clubs, and volunteering.
- Consider part-time online study for additional A levels or complementary qualifications.
Whatever path you choose, remember that your A levels are just one part of your journey. By staying curious, motivated, and open to new experiences, you can build a future full of opportunities.
