Navigating the world of further education can be challenging for children and parents alike. While Key Stages 1 – 4 are relatively fixed in terms of the constraints of the National Curriculum, Key Stage 5 (for children aged 16-19) offers a lot more flexibility. Your child will get the chance to choose the subjects they enjoy the most and dedicate themselves to those only. If you’re a little unsure what A Levels involve, read on for some information from this private college in the UK.

What are A Levels?

A Levels generally last the whole two years that your child is in sixth form or college. They involve intense study of one particular subject over that time period. After the first year your child will achieve an AS Level, with the A Level being conferred if they pass their assessments at the end of year 2.

Choosing subjects

Your child will be able to choose from a large range of subjects depending on their interests. But they will need to consider what the particular college they’re attending offers. Typical offerings usually include a range of science, humanities, languages, social sciences and mathematics subjects. When choosing which A Levels to take, your child should think carefully about a few things. These include what interests them, what they’re good at, and which subjects will allow them to pursue a particular degree at University or pursue a certain career path.

Assessment

A Levels are usually assessed in a variety of ways. This is with formal written exams in the summer, coursework and projects, and in-class tests or practical evaluation. AS and A Levels are graded A* – E, with anything below E being a fail. In that case your child might have to retake an exam or repeat the whole year. Your child might decide that they are happy with an AS Level in a certain subject and don’t want to progress to A Level.

What’s the alternative

If your child isn’t particularly academic you might worry that A Levels won’t suit them. It is now compulsory for children to stay in post-16 education until they’re 18. However they do have the option of enrolling in a vocational (work-related) qualification to set them up for a specific career instead of studying A Levels. An apprenticeship is a period of training undertaken on-the-job while working for an employer. Whilst still having some formal learning through an academic provider. This can be a great alternative for children who are more practical than academic.

You can help your child make a decision about their post-16 education by making sure they have all the information they need. Make sure they are aware of all the options available to them.