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AIBU?

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Original poster

Maximizing chances of GCSE grades at 8/9 is essential

184 replies

Elizo · 08/08/2024 14:28

Interested in views:

A child is heading for 7-9s. In a school where 8s/9s not v common.

Two views/ options:

Getting high numbers of 8s/9s is essential for top unis. Tutors/ work flat out and maximize chances of 8s and 9s. YANBU

or

7s are great so as long as they are on the cards no need to stress. YABU

OP posts:
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5
Fahdidahlia · 08/08/2024 14:34

Medicine, vet, top professional jobs yes the 9s stand you apart on the UCAS applications. More a chance to start discussing on a career path/future ideas. Doesn't have to be set in stone but can guide

SonicTheHodgeheg · 08/08/2024 14:33

8/9 in subjects to be studied at A-level is ideal as it increases the chance of a top grade at A-level bit a 7 isn’t going to hurt the chances of getting top grades at A-level and beyond.

7 is the equivalent of the old grade A. It’s an excellent grade to achieve.

DelurkingAJ · 08/08/2024 14:33

One of the maddening unintended consequences of institution blind job applications is that DH’s GCSEs (good from a school where being ok was exceptional) is that he then looks less bright than me (fistful of As and Astars from a selective private school). Which he isn’t. So I’d maximise the grades, personally.

Original poster
Elizo · 08/08/2024 14:32

EauNeu · 08/08/2024 14:31

Why do they have to go to a 'top uni'. What are their aspirations and what do they need to achieve that? Work backwards from the goal.

They don’t have to go to a top uni, they may not go to uni. I’m just curious about if the highest grades are needed for anything in particular

OP posts:
TeenToTwenties · 08/08/2024 14:32

YABU.
I'm not convinced anyone 'needs' 9s.

HeBeaverandSheBeaver · 08/08/2024 14:31

Don't think GCSEs are that essential unless going for top uni.

I'd rather child
Happy than have that amount of pressure.

Original poster
Elizo · 08/08/2024 14:31

Going into year 11. An all rounder, no specific subject goals yet…

OP posts:
EauNeu · 08/08/2024 14:31

Why do they have to go to a 'top uni'. What are their aspirations and what do they need to achieve that? Work backwards from the goal.

Octavia64 · 08/08/2024 14:30

How old is the child?

What subjects are they aiming for?

Too many variables.