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In the UK, all qualifications range from Entry level to PhDs at Level 8.

It’s important to know what level a qualification is as they are often mentioned in:

Job adverts: For example ‘Applicants must hold a relevant Level 3 qualification in childcare’

College courses: For example ‘You will normally need to have at least one of the following Level 2 qualifications, a BTEC First Certificate or at least four GCSEs grade A* to C’

Entry level: Each entry level qualification is available at three sub-levels – 1, 2 and 3. Entry level 3 is the most difficult.

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Funding your University Courses

There is a range of student funding to help you with the cost of studying and living at university.

Healthcare workers and social workers may be eligible to receive funding to support with their courses.

Funding for courses can change from year to year so it’s important to check the official organisations’ websites or contact them directly for the most up to date details.

How to choose the right subject or course

Choosing the right subjects and courses is a crucial decision that can impact your future career path. Whether you’re selecting school subjects, considering college or university courses, or looking to develop skills for career advancement, making informed choices can help you achieve your goals or keep your options open if you’re undecided.

Key Questions to Consider

  1. Which Subjects Do I Enjoy?

Reflect on the subjects you enjoy the most, as you’re likely to perform better in these areas. Think about the grades you typically receive and discuss your potential with your teachers and tutors to gauge what you might achieve.

 

  1. How Do I Prefer to Learn?

Understanding your learning style can help you select the right subject or course. There are three primary learning styles:

  • Visual Learners: Learn best by seeing things, such as diagrams and visual aids.
  • Auditory Learners: Learn best by hearing information, such as lectures and discussions.
  • Kinaesthetic Learners: Learn best by doing, engaging in hands-on activities.

You might learn through a mix of these styles. If you prefer listening, speaking, and writing, an academic course might be a good fit. Alternatively, if you learn better by doing, a vocational qualification or apprenticeship could be more suitable.

 

  1. Which Subjects Are Relevant to My Career Interests?

The subjects and courses you choose can significantly influence your career options. It is essential to understand the specific subjects, course levels, and grades required for your desired career path.

For example:

– Some careers, such as Nursing or Dentistry, require specific qualifications and grades in certain subjects.

– Many professions and advanced courses require particular subjects and minimum grades.

 

  1. Do I Need English, Maths, and Science?

These core subjects are frequently required by employers, courses, and apprenticeships. Increasingly, jobs and further education opportunities ask for a minimum of a C or even a B grade at GCSE in these subjects. For instance, most entry level positions within health and care requires functional skills.

When Should I Choose My GCSE Subjects?

In England and Wales, students typically choose their GCSE subjects in Year 9, as GCSE courses are taken in Years 10 and 11. However, some schools might ask you to decide as early as Year 8. Therefore, even if you’re in Year 7, it’s a good idea to start thinking about your options now.

Different schools have different timelines for selecting GCSE subjects, but your teachers will provide you with plenty of notice and guidance.

Which GCSEs Are Mandatory?

Most students will take around nine GCSE subjects. In England, you must take core subjects like Maths, English, and Science. English Language is a required subject in all schools, and most schools in England also require English Literature.

Science can be taken as three separate subjects (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics) or as a combined Science GCSE, which covers two areas.

Some schools may have additional compulsory subjects, so it’s important to check with your teachers about your school’s specific requirements.

What Are the Optional GCSE Subjects?

You have some freedom to choose additional subjects, and the available options can vary from one school to another. Common choices include:

  • A modern foreign language: Options often include French, German, and Spanish, but some schools offer languages like Mandarin and Japanese. Some schools may require you to take a modern foreign language, so confirm with your teachers whether it’s an option or a requirement.
  • A humanities subject: You might choose from subjects like History, Geography, or Religious Studies.
  • An arts subject: These can include Music, Drama, Art and Design, or Media Studies.
  • A technical subject: Options might include Design and Technology, Food Technology, or Computer Science.

All of these subjects are relevant to the different careers in health and social care – there is no wrong choice! Have a look on BBC bitesize (https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/levels/z98jmp3) for a breakdown of the different subjects.

Adult Education in Gloucestershire (AEiG) is committed to providing Information, Advice and Guidance to all individuals to allow them to make informed choices about learning, training, volunteering, and careers. AEiG use Seetec/Standguide who service the National Careers Service to provide free, impartial careers advice and create a tailored individual action plan for learners. AEiG also signpost to other provisions such as Gloucestershire Skills & Employment Hub who can also support with action planning and next steps.

  • Find out more: https://www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/adult-education-in-gloucestershire/