Hi! Lots of education threads at the moment! New academic year I suppose! My son sat his GCSEs back in 2015 now. He did first year sixth form (2 subjects didn't do AS exams) and got a U in AS Maths, they suggested he didn't continue. He got a part-time job and started volunteering in a museum (unrelated to his interests). He also put in to sit the AS Maths exams again privately, this time came out with an E. Although that isn't seen as impressive, I think he's pleased to have the certificate to say he has the qualification.
The next academic year came around and again he didn't have many plans at all and just stuck with his part-time job and volunteering. He ended up hating the museum (it was a very small local one and he sat there for 6 hours hole punching papers) but he got his "2 years volunteering award" thing from them 
he then left. He also passed his driving test (very pleased for him - I can't drive!)
He looked at things he could do and applied for the Access to HE in Science course. He started it this September.
He does enjoy it, but says it's pretty intense but seems to be doing okay atm, but he's currently got 5 essays! He's finding it a little bit stressful but is coping. I'm just concerned that this again will end bad. He says his tutor says it's going to get even more intense.
He starts writing his personal statement soon. I really don't think university is for him, but is this something I mention to him before he applies or what? He says everyone in his class are applying through the college and he has classes that prep him for uni! I didn't know this! After reading apparently the qualification is slightly useless if he doesn't go to uni?
He's keen on Marine Biology. My worry is he doesn't have any experience to even put on his personal statement. His tutor apparently says it's ok?? And doesn't have the best educational history.
Really would like some advice please! I've read other threads but thought a personal one would be VERY helpful.
TIA x