Choosing GCSEs can be a daunting task for your child. To show you ways you can help their decision making, we’ve collaborated with a school that offers a 1 year GCSE programme to give you some suggestions on how you can lend a hand. 

Don’t Push Your Direction 

There might be a temptation for you to push your child towards subjects that you would like them to do. But not necessarily ones that they themselves are interested in. So it is your job to guide them towards a path that they are excited by. So talk to them about their interests and what sort of career they might want, and how those feelings may guide their decision. 

Do The Research 

Look into subjects you don’t know that much about. And attend all the meetings the school offers regarding the GCSE curriculum, see how each subject is assessed and how that’ll play to your child’s strengths. The more you know about the process and what subjects are available to your child, the better informed position you will have when it comes to aiding their decision making.  

Discuss Their Interests

Your child may feel pressure to choose a certain subject just because they know a lot of their friends are doing it. Encourage them not to make decisions based on that criteria; tell them to really think about where their interests lie. What possible career intrigues them and to think hard about what subjects they think they will do well in, and forget about what other people may be doing. 

Talk to Teachers 

If you need a little more insight into the process. Never be afraid to get in touch with your child’s teachers. Be that for specific subjects or their head of year. Because they will always be willing to help you and your child make the best decision for their future studies.

Stay Positive 

Don’t let the stress of the situation get to them. Remember to tell them that this is an exciting time in their lives. Where they can start to really get into studying the things they care about. There’s a lot of potential at their feet, and while it may look overwhelming. It is also very exciting, so don’t let them forget it!