A level choices for all-round talented kid

31 replies

PrincessOfPreschool · 30/09/2024 13:42

DS2 (Y11) is academically gifted, I would say. However, he doesn't particularly enjoy any subject. He's predicted all 8s and 9s (except Spanish - no one is predicted above 6 but we're working on it!). Anyway, I asked what A levels he's interested in:

Maths. He is top 3 in school. I asked why not Further Maths and he said he thinks it'll be too hard.
Geography. "Because it's easy."
Spanish? Very much a maybe but he's very good at languages and seems to enjoy it, loves doing accents/ impressions and is v strong on grammar.

He often talks about sciences with his twin sister who loves Bio/ chem.

Basically he could do anything but of course it depends what he'd enjoy the most and then excel in. He seems to not massively enjoy anything currently. If you ask what class he really likes he will pick the teachers he gets on best with.

Anyone have any advice on how to start thinking about A level choices and what questions he can ask him himself.

In terms of career, of course he has no idea. He worked at a media agency for his work experience and I can see him in that environment. He's very loud, energetic, fun, people person - and not serious!

OP posts:

Blanketyre · 30/09/2024 15:26

My dd who is studying Theology and Philosophy did RS, Psychology and Maths and enjoyed the combo.

Original poster

PrincessOfPreschool · 30/09/2024 15:25

Great idea! I've just done that for Theology. I'll get him to start looking at some courses. He loves an argument, which is why I wonder about politics and philosophy!

OP posts:

TickingAlongNicely · 30/09/2024 15:17

How about getting him to look at various university courses and work backwards?

Original poster

PrincessOfPreschool · 30/09/2024 15:13

Thanks. That's really helpful. I'll take a look at IB, hadn't thought of it, but I think will only be private schools.

@Elizo so Maths, one science and one other? He should get at least a 7 in Spanish. He has tutoring in it as I was already aware it's a weak subject for the school! His tutor said she is aiming for at least an 8 for him.

I'm wondering if it's harder to get a top A level grade in Physics or Maths than say Geography/ Spanish/ Politics/ Philosophy. DS1 just finished A levels and Physics/ Maths was just ridiculously hard compared to his other A level. DS2 has never tried Politics or Phil as they don't offer GCSE at his school in these (neither A levels).

DS2 might consider a theology degree so I'm thinking humanities/ lang may be a better route. It's really hard. I knew exactly what A levels I wanted to do!

OP posts:

Elizo · 30/09/2024 14:15

You could be writing about my DS! For languages A level I think you need a 7 or it could be a struggle. DS and I have talked and his starting point is Maths, English Lit and Chem. He may sub physics for chem or a humanity for Eng lit, but this is almost providing a default position now. For all rounders 2 maths / science and one other keeps max options open. To do science related subjects many require maths. Maybe coming up with a default would help?? Then they need a reason to change it

Foxesandsquirrels · 30/09/2024 13:50

It's better he looks at the course outlines at the school he's going to. I loved psychology a level but my friend who went to another school hated it as that teacher chose a different spec and topics. It makes a big difference what they're actually studying not just the subject as a whole.
The school should have this information and if your child is this bright he should find it easy to access.
Alternatively look for any schools that offer IB that you may be able to get to/ fund. It's often a much better option for high achieving all arounders.

Unflip

1 2

Swipe left for the next trending thread