How to advise a DS very keen on science?

[sandripples]

My DH and I both studied languages. OUr DD is currently studying languages but our DS is ploughing a new furrow in the family and loves science. Where are the best sources of advice to help him choose careers please? Any ideas? He is in lower 6th form now and is applying for a few taster sessions at unis but any further thoughts would be welcome? How do you know if a pure science or more applied science would be more suitable? he is bright, sociable and hard working, got excellent GCses.

Thanks Betelgeuse. He's doing Maths, Chemistry, Physics and Biology for AS and may well continue all 4 at A2. I haven't heard any concerns about the maths teachers but will make a few enquiries.

His current thinking is to do Biochemistry as a degree. He's in the top 2-3 (in a big comprehensive 6th form) for all his subjects at the moment and is aiming for Cambridge. I think that would be excellent becuase of their broad Bio Natsci approach - he'd be able to take a year to find out where his interests really lie I think. But I don't know where else offers a broad approach in first year.

Durham offers a natural sciences course as well sandripples.

Betelgeuse - that's really helpful - thank-you.

Good to know about Durham too. Yes Scottish uni's are a possibility (indeed I went to Edinburgh for the broad first 2 years, myself. And also because my father was Scottish so we had roots there)

The AS module results will be useful in March as if he's not done well in anyareas we'll consider a tutor.

Thanks again. I'll follow up on The New Scientist idea. And check Durham Open Days.

Op - have you come across either the Smallpeice trust or the Headstart courses? They are both really well run courses for students interested in STEM subjects but unsure of exactly what they want to study.

Thank-you everyone - this is a really good source of advice for us.

DS has applied to Headstart and is waiting to hear. He;s also been accepted for a 'Challenge Day' at Cambridge. The idea of going to local Open Days to find out more is a good one. I'll look into those.

Many universities these days offer 4 year science degrees, with a third year getting (paid) experience. These types of courses usually offer a distinct advantage over the standard 3 year degrees.

If he is serious about a scientific career, he also needs to consider that his studies are likely to take him beyond degree level, in order to be competitive for the best jobs. (The vast majority of people in management positions will usually hold PhDs).

If he is looking to do biochemistry, he should also look to the RSC for careers advice and the Society of Biology.

I've been away so have only just seen the last 2 posts - thank-you for these.