A bit of history and context. DS is in private secondary, on a bursary. He finished GCSEs with a good range of 9-8 and a couple of 7. We all thought he would be doing some kind of engineering - he was always obsessed with that kind of thing as a kid. He picked Maths, Physics, Art. He was very keen on having Art there. School insisted he had a 4th one, so he picked Economics.
DS broke down today crying that he doesn't know what he is interested in and what he wants to study. He says he hates the choices he made and if he would be choosing today he would choose English, RS, Psychology (and keep Art that he likes). He wants to go into therapy. He doesn't want to discuss his MH with me, but he seems to be having some existential problems. He says his MH is only partially related to A-levels
In practical educational terms, if he really decides he doesn't want to continue these subjects, what are the options? Can he leave and restart in state 6th form with a different set of subjects next year? Should he slog on? - it seems a long way - 2 years - to be doing what you hate. He says he doesn't feel strongly about any subject (depression?)
I mean, he told me in very strong terms when we were choosing A levels that he was not doing any essay-based subject! He is not sure he REALLY wants to do English or RS anyway....
He has very good friends, he is not bullied, the school is good although perhaps there is a bit of pressure. He was always considered bright, an interesting person.
What are our options? I understand it is too late to change now, and especially if you're not sure. Should I send him next year somewhere with a Ebacc? (assuming he can get in). Would a good 6th from even take him after quitting A levels midway? Can he repeat a year in the same school (I will probably need to borrow money to pay full fees then and it might not be doable or outright crazy)...
Thank you to everyone whose children went through similar experiences for your advice, whether on the forum or pm