Frequently asked questions
You're not alone in having to choose options. Everyone in Year 9 goes through the same process and often ask the same questions. Take a look at the most frequently asked questions.
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- How do I know if I've chosen the right options?
- I like sports/creative subjects best. Can I just do these?
- I need maths and science for the career I want. Can I take more than one science?
- Can I study something relevant to the world of work that will help me to explore my career ideas?
- My friends say I won't be able to do the career I want because of my gender. How can I find out if they're right?
How do I know if I've chosen the right options?
Have you researched and thought carefully about your choices? If so, you can be confident that you've selected the right options. You will have chosen subjects and courses because they interest you, you enjoy them, they link to a career idea and/or they give you lots of choice at the end of Year 11.
I like sports/creative subjects best. Can I just do these?
Sorry. The answer is no. You have to study compulsory subjects and most schools give you areas that you have to choose from. For example, you may have to choose one technology, one creative/sport and one language subject as well as having one free choice.
I need maths and science for the career I want. Can I take more than one science?
Yes, in most schools you can take a combination of one, two or three separate science GCSEs. Talk to your science teachers, careers co-ordinator and/or Connexions personal adviser to find out which of the available options would be best for the career you have in mind.
Can I study something relevant to the world of work that will help me to explore my career ideas?
Most schools offer a range of practical/vocational courses and some offer the Diploma, which is a new qualification based around work. Remember though that you will still have to study compulsory subjects.
My friends say I won't be able to do the career I want because of my gender. How can I find out if they're right?
It's never a good idea to choose a career simply because of your gender. Speak to your careers co-ordinator or Connexions personal adviser about your concerns. They can help you think through your ideas and see how well they match your interests and abilities. They may also be able to put you in touch with someone of your gender who is already doing the career that interests you.
What next?
It's time to make an action plan.
