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Original poster

DD didn't get GCSE options

135 replies

El24 · 24/04/2012 10:05

Just found out from DD that she didn't get her GCSE choices despite currently being in the top set for the chosen subject. She wants to be a doctor and having the triple science option is key to her future ? this has been confirmed by several F.E colleges. I also found out someone who isn't in the top set got in. To say we are deeply disappointed is an understatement. I've already called up the school and been fobbed off. Is there anything we can do?

Thanks in advance.

OP posts:
Ponders · 24/04/2012 11:01

have a look at \link{http://www.thestudentroom.co.uk/wiki/Medical_School_GCSE_Requirements\this table of med school requirements} - most of them are only looking for 2 science grades, & the minimum is B or C (though of course A*s are always the most desirable)

mollymole · 24/04/2012 11:00

A prospective medical student NEEDS triple science, especially separate Chemistry. If you do not get your choices then change to a school that will provide. Go and see them and talk it through, is your daughter honestly of the standard to get three As or 3A in the science subjects, as well as a bag load of As and A in her others. Then to get 3 or 4 A's or A* at A level, which she will need for med. school.

Ponders · 24/04/2012 10:57

I thought double science was ok for those who then go on to do science A levels & thence to medicine?

(it's what the sainted martianbishop always used to say)

IndigoBell · 24/04/2012 10:53

So, I think what's happening g is that the school wants her to do eBac, for their league tables - and that's why she can't do triple science.

It's totally unacceptable for a prospective med student not to do triple science.

Make a meeting - by email, explaining everything you want to say in the email, then go and see them. With your DH if you think that might help.

It's good if your DD can do the eBac - but she needs to do it as well as triple science, not instead of.

Original poster
El24 · 24/04/2012 10:46

i will definitely be making an appointment with the head of department because it's ludicrous. One of the prerequisites is that she has hit at least a level 6 and she's exceeded that. I'm pretty sure allocation is based on progress and level throughout the last three years so even based on that she should have been given her first choice. Her only flaw is she's gets into trouble for chatting, but that shouldn't determine whether or not she gets her options, esp as she has proved herself academically!

Unfortunately I was told about triple science option from the college during a career fair. I can prob easily get this in writing if I ask.

I have to say the school were desperately pushing the English Baccalaureate option, which my DD is now doing thanks to their choice not to give her the triple sciences.

OP posts:
Guadalupe · 24/04/2012 10:20

or maybe it's down to your designer gear Grin

Guadalupe · 24/04/2012 10:19

Is it based on recent results rather than the set?

My son wants to do triple science and we were told it was down to the average mark acheived over the year as well as an easter exam which counts for 50%

mulberryoutlet · 24/04/2012 10:18

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Kez100 · 24/04/2012 10:12

If it is that important, speak to school to find out who decides on the option choice intake and make an appointment to see them, and science if necessary. Find out what her level is and why she was not chosen.

However, the set you are in does not necessarily mean all those below are at a lower level. My son is dyslexic and in the bottom 'band' for English and, by virtue of that, can only be in the top set of the bottom band for Science. So, he is in set 4 (out of 6 for Science). However he is level 7 in Science (just 4a in English). So, sometimes, lower set children are equally as able - I don't recommend dissing them when you go into school!

OddBoots · 24/04/2012 10:10

You need to arrange a face to face meeting with whoever makes the decision in the school, it's too easy to be fobbed off on the phone and find out how they make the decision and what needs to change for her to be able to do it. I'm not a great believer in making a fuss at school but it sounds like this is worth getting sorted. If you have the confirmation from the colleges in writing then bring it with you.