Homepage > Learning > Choices > Choices at 14
- Starting out
- Don't know where to start?
- What exactly can I choose?
- I don't have a career path in mind
- I have an idea of what I want to do in the future
- What are the common mistakes when choosing options?
Year 9 is when you choose the subjects that you will study during years 10 and 11. You need to think about how these subjects will affect your future career path. You may need to take certain subjects now if you want to go on and work within your chosen career.
During year 9 at school you should be offered an interview to discuss your choices and future career plans. Understanding how important these next two years are will help you to make the right choices.
The following questions will help you decide on the subjects you should study.
- What are my interests?
- What am I good at?
- What skills do I have?
- What career do I want in the future?
- What skills do I need for this career?
Don’t panic. Most people can’t answer all of the above questions. Your teachers, parents or carers can help. You can also speak to a Connexions Personal Adviser in your school or you local Connexions Centre/One Stop Shop.
All schools offer a different range of subjects and qualifications, so it is important that you find out what choices are available. In some circumstances choosing one subject may limit your remaining choices, so choose carefully.
There are some subjects that you have to study such as English, Maths and Science. Your school will tell you what you have to study and what courses are optional.
There are many different terms used when choosing your options such as taking a vocational course opposed to a more academic based course. These are often very confusing and each has advantages and disadvantages. It is therefore important that you find out the differences and decide on the best choices for your needs.
I don’t have a career path in mind
If you don’t have a career path in mind it is a good idea to take a broad range of subjects. This will help keep your options open for the future. In this situation you should think about taking subjects that you enjoy or subjects where you achieve good marks.
I have an idea of what I want to do in the future
If you have an idea of the career path you wish to follow then it is important that you choose subjects associated with this career. Speak with your teachers and investigate what subjects you will need to study. This is so you can continue learning for your chosen career path at sixth form, college and even university. Do some research; our Connexions libraries and Personal Advisers are available to offer information, advice and guidance.
What are the common mistakes when choosing options?
It is important to make the right choices, so follow our guide.
- Don’t choose courses because you like the teacher as there may be a different teacher next year.
- Don’t choose courses because your friends have chosen them. They may have different interest and abilities.
- Make sure you understand what is involved with each subject to avoid disappointment.
- Understand how each subject is assessed, so you understand what is required.
Which Way Now?
There is a useful guide for Year 9 students to help and support you in making the right choices
Connexions Leaflets
Have a look at the various leaflet we produce on things like choices for students, advice on higher education, exam stress, personal safety and more.
DCSF
The Department for Children Schools and Families provides information on different qualifications for schools and colleges
QCA
The Qualifications and Curriculum Authority provides details on qualifications and Key Skills.
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