Post GCSE

[bennybannsider]

In Northern Ireland if that makes a difference.

Child doing GCSEs now. They are high academic ability but won't do well due to a combination of laziness and undiagnosed ADHD.

They won't score enough to return for sixth form for A levels. They do have an offer for tech, and will probably get the 4 GCSEs they need to get on the course. However with zero focus I predict that tech now would result in failure. They just can't knuckle down and get the work done.

Is there anything else available for a child like this? They've never had a job but we are applying. What can they do next academic year that is useful?

I'd look for an apprenticeship that would start next year (most applications are closed for this year's start). Or, do they have any interest in aviation? My friend's DC was the same, and took a job in the airport (Belfast International have a job opening as a customer assistant Customer Service Agent - FULL TIME - Belfast International Airport in Belfast | Careers at Belfast International Airport (Ground Handling), and then when they turned 18 they interviewed for cabin crew and now fly worldwide. BI also have a Cargo Clerical role open Cargo Clerical Agent- Belfast International in Belfast | Careers at Belfast International Airport (Cargo). They'll probably get on better doing something practical, rather than sat at a desk learning.

I wouldn’t write off a vocational course at 16. My similar sounding child is thriving how they are doing something practical at college that they enjoy. It’s a lot of work but very very different from the tedious slog that is GCSEs in a school. Lots more fun and more kids like them in their class etc.

In England many colleges offer BTECs. These are mostly coursework and tests with limited final exams. Students with adhd tend to do better on these because it’s not a single terminal exam.

not sure on if they are offered in NI.

does the child have any interests? Job/course in those interests is the obvious thing.