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IMPORTANT: 14-19 option choices are under review by the Government and therefore the information in this article may be subject to change.
Starting out
Year 9 is when you choose the subjects that you will study during years 10 and 11. You need to think about how these subjects will affect your future career path. You may need to take certain subjects now if you want to go on and work within your chosen career. You should be offered an interview to discuss your choices and future career plans. Understanding how important these next two years are will help you to make the right choices.
Don’t know where to start?
The following questions will help you decide on the subjects you should study.
- What are my interests?
- What am I good at?
- What skills do I have?
- What career do I want in the future?
- What skills do I need for this career?
Don’t panic. Most people can’t answer all of the above questions. Your teachers, parents or carers can help.
What exactly can I choose?
All schools offer a different range of subjects and qualifications, so it is important that you find out what choices are available. In some circumstances choosing one subject may limit your remaining choices, so choose carefully.
There are some subjects that you have to study such as English, Maths and Science. Your school will tell you what you have to study and what courses are optional.
There are many different terms used when choosing your options such as taking a vocational course opposed to a more academic based course. These are often very confusing and each has advantages and disadvantages. It is therefore important that you find out the differences and decide on the best choices for your needs.
I don’t have a career path in mind
If you don’t have a career path in mind it is a good idea to take a broad range of subjects. This will help keep your options open for the future. In this situation you should think about taking subjects that you enjoy or subjects where you achieve good marks.
I have an idea of what I want to do in the future
If you have an idea of the career path you wish to follow then it is important that you choose subjects associated with this career. Speak with your teachers and investigate what subjects you will need to study. This is so you can continue learning for your chosen career path at sixth form, college and even university. Do some research; visit the website links from our careers library or speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser in school or at your local Connexions Centre/One Stop Shop.
What are the common mistakes when choosing options?
It is important to make the right choices, so follow our guide.
- Don’t choose courses because you like the teacher as there may be a different teacher next year.
- Don’t choose courses because your friends have chosen them. They may have different interest and abilities.
- Make sure you understand what is involved with each subject to avoid disappointment. Ask your teacher for more information if you are unsure.
- Understand how each subject is assessed, so you understand what is required.
Useful websites
Which Way Now?
Which Way Now outlines what’s on offer and gives lots of details about the qualifications and courses you can do. There are also lots of interactive areas designed to get you thinking about yourself and your future.
Directgov - Qualifications explained
Provides information on what your qualification's worth, and where it can lead.
Bright Links – Knowledge Bank, Year 9-11
Provides information on SATs, GCSEs, Diplomas, Apprenticeships and Functional Skills.
Online tools
Know Yourself
It's important to choose options that will interest and motivate you. What interests you? What makes you work hard? Try this quiz to find out.
Decision Making Organiser
Need help to work out which options might suit you and why? Not sure what questions you should ask? Use this activity to organise your ideas.
What might you be?
Have you ever thought about what your future might look like if you’re interested in a career in science or maths?
Last updated: 20/06/11
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