Is your teenager planning to attend a college or sixth form to study their a levels? If so, there are plenty of factors they should be considering and many ways you can help them with the transition. Here’s some advice from a sixth form college in London. 

What are A Levels? 

Once your son or daughter has finished their GCSEs, they have the chance to study a levels; a type of qualification available across a variety of subjects. They are studied over two years. In the first year, students usually study four different subjects and they tend to drop one for the second year when things get a little tougher.  

There are 6 pass grades for a levels, from A* to the failing grade E. If your child is planning to go to university, they will need to have a good understanding of what grades are required for the course in question so that they can work towards a goal.  

As well as the obvious qualification, there are lots of other benefits, more personal benefits to a levels. They help young people get used to a more independent type studying and teach them the importance of hard work and determination.  

Choosing a Sixth Form 

It’s important that young people choose a school for the right reasons, not just because their friends are going there. The establishment needs to offer the right combination of subjects and conveniently located.  

If you want to be in a good position to prepare your child for their a levels and choose the right college, you’ll need to do plenty of research. Browse the websites and check out the prospectuses. It’s also worth looking at the testimonials and inspection reports. The more you understand about the process, the better your advice will be. What’s more, you’ll be able to put together a short list of schools you and your child would like to visit.  

Once you have your short list, be sure to go along to some open days with your child so that they know they have your full support. You’ll also be able to ask lots of questions and get a good feel for the safety and cleanliness of the premises. 

Dealing with Exam Stress 

This is a stressful time for your child. Not only are they dealing with their current GCSE exam, they’re also worrying about what path to take in the years to come. It is vital that you make yourself available to your child so that they have a shoulder to cry on should they need one. Bottling up their emotions is not a healthy option; its better that you encourage them to open up to you and talk about how they’re feeling.  

Try not to put too much pressure on your child. Let them pick the subjects that are right for them and suited to their skills, rather than encouraging something you’d prefer them to study. What’s more, remind them that they can always fall back on exam resits should they fail. Their mental and physical health are far more important than any GCSE or a level grade.  

Preparing Your Child for A Levels 

When your child eventually starts their a levels, it might be worth you asking their teacher for a copy of the curriculum so that you can provide your child with relevant study guides and other learning materials. If necessary, it might be worth hiring a private tutor to help your son or daughter with any problem areas. Make sure they have a quiet, tidy desk area at home so that they can study in peace. It should be well-equipped with all the appropriate stationery and books.  

Organisation is key when it comes to a levels, so it might be wise to encourage your child to prepare a study schedule once term has started so that they know how much time to dedicate to each subject. They should also factor in some leisure time into their study schedule, as it’s crucial they have some time to wind down, relax and socialise. 

If you have any more questions regarding a levels, don’t hesitate to contact your child’s school for further advice.