My son has a dilemma

[bobe25]

Following his gcse results of 4A* and 5A,he was offered two places at Sutton Grammar and Wallington County Grammar.He wishes to study English Literature,Politics,History and Philosophy which both schools offer however the snag with Sutton is that he will not be able to do politics due to combination issues although they have offered economics or physchology instead.My son has some issues with this but there is going to be a meeting next week with the head of sixth form discussing this.We were shocked at these results since he did not do an ounce of revision despite our constant"nagging" nevertheless he says he is willing to work when push comes to shove.Previously he attended a low achieving comprehensive school.
What school would you advice he choose?I'm aware this is a win-win situation but all of us are at a predicament.I would greatly appreciate any advice.

Thanks in advance!

[senua]

What is the medium-term plan? Whatever the answer is (go to Oxbridge, read subject X at a Russell Group, get an apprenticeship, etc), choose the school that has the best history (not one year - that could be a blip) of achieving that outcome.

[racingheart]

Well done to him. Fantastic achievements. They are both wonderful schools. I had a real soft spot for Wallington when we visited, and my memory is that it's arts and humanities subjects are slighter stronger than Sutton's, which is very strong on sciences. but really - you can't lose. So I'd ask: which is nearer? Does he know anyone he likes in either 6th form? Which one has extra curricular clubs that he really wants to get involved with, which are strong and very popular with the pupils?

And yes, definitely, what are the track records of the schools in getting humanities students to Oxbridge? Because that's where he's likely to want to go: maybe PPE or English there or at one of the best Russell Group unis. Some of the Sutton grammars may be stronger on science placements at Oxbridge.

[Mutteroo]

Where did your son feel more comfortable? How much does he want to study politics over the alternative options? What is the careers support like at each school? For me the amount of pupils attending Russell group colleges is unimportant. What's more important is a sixth form that identifies the best fit for my child and then helps my child achieve that aim.

Ultimately your DS has 2 excellent choices and with those excellent grades, he'll do well at either. Good luck to him!