How To Help Students Choose Their GCSE Subjects
13 Nov, 20241-2 minutes
In this blog, you will learn:
- When students need to choose their GCSE subjects.
- How to help students choose their subjects.
- How Teachers can encourage students to thoughtfully select their GCSE subjects.
- Why it's important to support students throughout their GCSE subjects.
- Where the latest teaching jobs are and how to apply for them.
Choosing GCSE subjects can be just as stressful for students on their academic journey as revision for - or actually sitting their GCSE exams. There is a lot of pressure on students to choose desirable and challenging subjects that they will excel in and that will set them up for their academic future.
In this blog, learn how Teachers can help and support students choosing their GCSE subjects and why it’s important to support them during this crucial academic phase. You’ll discover effective strategies for Teachers to assist students in choosing GCSE subjects and learn why ongoing support is vital for their success.
When do students need to choose their GCSE subjects?
In England and Wales, students usually take their GCSEs in year 10 and 11, and select the subjects they wish to study in year 9. However, some schools may ask students to choose their GCSE subjects in year 8. Whatever year your students are in, it's never too early to get them to start thinking about their options.
How to help students choose their subjects
During this crucial academic phase, students might struggle to choose their GCSEs and need some support or advice. Normally, students take between 7 and 9 GCSEs depending on their school. In England and Wales, the core subjects that everyone must take are Maths, English and Science.
Some schools may insist on students taking a particular subject e.g. a language, however Teachers can’t choose subjects for students. Educators can provide support or advice where needed and empower students in their GCSE subject choices and the significance of providing continuous support throughout their academic journey.
How can Teachers encourage students to thoughtfully select their GCSE subjects?
5 factors Teachers can encourage students to consider when selecting their GCSE subjects:
- Plan for the future.
- Keep your options open.
- Consider your interests and strengths.
- Make your own decisions.
- Evaluate the assessment process.
Plan for the future
It might seem obvious but Teachers should remind students that the GCSE subjects they choose are crucial to their future and career plans. Students should consider what career path they would like to take and what qualifications they need to acquire in the process.
Ask students to think about what they want to do after their GCSEs, such as what A-levels, university courses or jobs, as some courses require certain subjects and specific results.
Keep your options open
Some students aren't sure what career path they want to take or what GCSE subjects to choose - and this is perfectly fine! This is where Teachers can provide support and advice to help students make effective decisions in the absence of a final goal.
If students aren't sure what GCSEs to choose, encourage them to choose a variety of subjects to keep their options open. Students can benefit from choosing subjects that complement each other, but that can also stand alone and offer alternative career paths or opportunities.
If a student is unsure on their future career path, a Teacher can add value by reminding students to choose subjects which they are interested in and enjoy. If a student is enjoying the subject, they are much more likely to have a positive learning experience and acquire better grades.
Consider your interests and strengths
While it's important for students to choose career paths and subjects that will challenge them and provide them with a desirable income, it’s also important to follow a career path they are passionate about.
Encourage students to choose subjects that they are interested in, after all they are choosing a long term career that they would want to enjoy and excel in. Help students research career paths and the subjects they are good at and explore the different career paths available to them.
If students choose a subject that they are good at, they are more likely to enjoy the work as well as succeed. Playing to strengths and interests can help students tackle the workload over the next few years as they may be more confident and able to achieve the best possible results.
Some GCSE subjects can act as a de-stressor or a more relaxed subject that students look forward to in their day. Having a positive attitude towards GCSE subjects can reduce the workload and pressures for students.
Make your own decisions
It’s important for Teachers to encourage students to think carefully about their GCSE subjects and to make their own decisions. When it comes to students choosing their GCSE subjects, Teachers can effectively help set students on the career path of their choice.
It’s important that students aren’t influenced by factors such as their friends choosing the same subject or if they like a certain Teacher.
Students aren't guaranteed to end up in the same lessons as their friends or follow the same career path as their friends just because they choose the same GCSE subjects. It’s highly unlikely that choosing different subjects will affect students' social circles, and there’s always a chance that students will make new friends in their new classes.
Evaluate the assessment process
It’s important for students to consider the assessment process or mark scheme when choosing their subjects. Some GCSE subjects are based almost exclusively on exams, which might be off-putting for students who struggle with exam pressures and prefer doing coursework.
If the subject requires writing, analysis or coursework, it is important for students to be aware of the different requirements and feel comfortable taking on those challenges.
Teachers should inform students of the various assessment processes for each subject as they are all different and therefore may or may not depend significantly on exam results. Ask students to consider how the course is assessed and how it will affect their performance and results.
Why is it important to support students throughout their GCSE subjects?
Just as Teachers should be aware of how to support students during exam periods, it’s important that they are able to provide the best support when students come to choosing their GCSE subjects.
It’s crucial for Teachers to support students when selecting their GCSE subjects so they can make decisions that can have a positive impact on their learning, mental health and career plans.
Maintaining students' mental health and wellbeing is of the utmost importance and choosing GCSE subjects can be stressful and intense. Teachers can help students put into perspective the magnitude of their decision and how choosing the right GCSEs can affect their future career plans.
Teaching jobs
If you’re searching for your next teaching job, why not take a look at the latest teaching vacancies, or simply upload your CV to be notified when a relevant position becomes available.
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