GCSE and A Level Options

The Department for Education has developed the following resources which help to simplify the options available to young people after GCSEs.

2-minute animation showcasing and explaining each choice in a simple, dynamic and visual manner

A route comparison grid which shows all of the routes available after GCSEs, along with additional information on each route such as the level of study, entry requirements, duration of the course, where it can lead etc.

Key Stage 4 options

At Key Stage 4 students have the option of studying GCSEs; BTEC Level 2 and Cambridge Nationals

Key Stage 5 options

At Key Stage 5 students have the option of studying A levels; BTEC Level 3; Cambridge Technicals and T Levels.  The Government website provides more information on T levels.

When deciding which qualification and subjects to study, it is important that you do your research as some careers will require you to gain specific qualifications. There are a number of sources of advice available:

- The results from your Unifrog careers software
- BBC Bitesize GCSE options: Everything you need to know about choosing your GCSE subjects
- Which University Guide explains how important GCSE choices are when it comes to university
- iCould guide to choosing GCSE options
- National Careers Service have Careers Advisers available 8am to 10pm, 7 days a week (free)
- UCAS - further education helps you understand post 16 options
- Russell Group helps you to understand which subjects open up different degrees, particularly at Russell Group universities.

        In addition to online support, speak to:

- Your form tutor
- Your subject teachers
- Your Performance Director
- Careers Adviser (ask your form tutor to book an appointment)