GCSE Options - Useful links
In preparation for the GCSE Options Process we advise that you look ahead. Below are a number of websites which will help support with this.
Questions you should begin to consider:
- Which subjects am I good at?
- Which subjects do I enjoy?
- Which subjects am I considering?
- Why am I considering these subjects?
- How do I enjoy learning?
- What career do I have in mind?
Other important points to consider:
- The core subjects of English, Maths and Science are important for most careers.
- Students should not choose a subject just because they like the teacher or their friends are choosing it.
- Students should choose subjects they will enjoy - this will help motivate them to learn.
- It is never too early to think about long-term career plans or higher education goals, and students should start to research entry requirements and training that may be involved. It is worth checking entry requirements for future courses carefully, as some careers and courses will specify certain qualifications and may ask for specific grades.
Many young people will have no firm career plans in Year 8 when they choose their subjects for Key Stage 4. Even so, it is important for students to start thinking about subjects that might affect their choices after their GCSEs and A Levels.
In general, whichever subjects students choose for Key Stage 4, there will still be a range of options open to them after Year 11. However, for some A Level courses, such as Maths, Languages or the Sciences, students will need to have achieved a certain grade in the same subject at GCSE in order to continue with the subject at A Level. Furthermore, some university courses will specify certain GCSE grades in their entry requirements, particularly for Maths or Science degrees.
As a guide, please click on the link below to look at the GCSE entry requirements for Reigate College and East Surrey College for entry. Please note that entry criteria are reviewed every year and are subject to change. We work in close partnership both Colleges who offer our students priority on admissions where the requirements are met, taster activities and transition days.
Whilst we have these close relationships, students also have the opportunity to apply to any institute they choose.
For students with aspirations for a career in Medicine, Dentistry or Veterinary, top GCSE results across the board will be required. This is also the case for students hoping to study at universities such as Oxford or Cambridge.
It is important to note that students will not be limited to continuing with the same subjects or type of course they have taken to the end of Year 11. For example, a student taking GCSEs may decide to progress onto A Levels, or may take an apprenticeship or technical qualification.
Below are links to key articles which will help in planning for GCSE options. At the bottom of the page there are further links for Parents and Carers.
| National Careers Service | Career Pilot |
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This website provides information and guidance to help make decisions on learning, training and work |
Career Pilot for students has useful information on ‘your GCSE choices at 13/14’ |
| GCSE Requirements for Medicine | The UniGuide |
| icould | Success at Schools |
| Choosing GCSE Options - Three relevant articles | |
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Things to consider when choosing your GCSE Options |
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Options at 13 - Information for Parents and Carers:
| Parental Guidance | Careers advice for Parents and Carers |
| Information for Parents and Carers on GCSE Options | Choosing GCSE subjects - the essential guide |
