GSCE choices - Latin or Art?

[BankHolidayFun]

DS is at a selective school. He has chosen History and Religion and Philosophy as 2 of the 3 GCSE options (these were no brainers)

His third choice is between Latin and Art.

He is good at both, but probably enjoys Art more although he's certainly not a top artist and more likely to look at doing humanities at university (History, PPE, Philosophy ) than anything creative.

I have been pushing Latin as it's a good opportunity for him and not a lot of state schools offer this. Also, it's the basis of many languages and it helps with broader general knowledge. I admit I am probably reluctant for him not to choose it as I would have loved the opportunity to study it myself!

Also, he's not the most organised child and I'm concerned he won't cope with the homework and deadlines for Art as it's obviously course work heavy. Saying this, his art teacher thinks he will be able to cope

Any thoughts? Would it be beneficial in applying to a top university if he studies Latin at GCSE?

Thanks in advance!

LET HIM CHOOSE HIMSELF.

If he has absolutely no idea, then I recommend art.

The only bits from your OP that are relevant @BankHolidayFun are:
He is good at both, but probably enjoys Art more
his art teacher thinks he will be able to cope

You should tell him to choose whichever he likes and stop micromanaging his life.

Why are you pushing Latin? Let him choose himself!

I had the same dilemma back in the day - I chose Latin but swapped to Art at the last moment. My main interest was/is science so neither were going to be subjects I took on to further study. It made zero impact on my uni application - a medical related course. Both subjects in that area have advantages - many medical terms have Latin routes, but my art work was seen as proof of dexterity at interview.

I am glad I took art - I'm average at best at drawing, terrible at painting - but I enjoyed it. I look back now and realise how much I took being able to spend 4 hours a week doing art with all the materials provided for granted.

I agree that the student should ultimately make his/her choice, they are the one studying the subject and taking the exam/assignment. But the pupil should base his/her decision on careful research based on what is actually required in lessons homework and assessments in order to do well in the particular subject at GCSE. Get him/her to discuss carefully with his/her teachers !

The choice is not going to affect his university chances.

However, if he does end up doing history at university Latin could be useful, especially if he isn’t doing a modern language.

The kids I know who did Art were bright and organised and ended up with all 9s. But they said Art was the biggest stress and the most work of all their subjects. Just anecdotal of course.

Make sure he is aware of the work and discipline needed. but if he loves it then he should go for it.

If Dc are getting 9 in art, they might be perfectionists. You can always find something to tweak! You need to know enough is enough and a 7/8 is ok for most. Years ago DD got a B but moved school and got an A at A level. Good teaching is paramount! I would look at art in the school and results. Is the teaching good?

He should not do Latin if he doesn’t like learning grammar. That’s inevitable!

So is Art though.

You have to know the context of the artists you look at. All students are drawn to Pop Art at GCSE. They learn about protest and the growing consumer society.

Delacroix? Nash?