Transitioning from GCSEs to A-levels

Transitioning from GCSEs to A-levels The move from Year 11 to sixth form is really significant. For many pupils, this is the first time that they will be treated like an adult: no more school uniform and a greater degree of freedom. With this freedom of course comes extra responsibility and pressure. These tips can help your child prepare for the change: 1.A-levels involve a huge amount of work, especially if your child is starting with four or more AS levels. Help your child by providing them with clear space to work on, access to a computer and room for their files and books. 2. The move to sixth form can be very stressful. Keep the channels of communication with your child open at all times and make sure they feel able to chat to you about their worries. 3. A-levels involve more self-study and in-depth work than GCSEs. If you child isn't sure how to work in this way, a few sessions with a study skills tutor or subject-specific tutor can really help. 4. Unfortunately A-levels happen at a time when teenagers want to party as much as possible. Set some boundaries with your child: it's important to have some rest and relaxation, but not at the cost of their studies. 5.Start researching universities and degree programmes as soon as sixth form starts. When your child can contextualise their studies and see what they can lead to, they can become more motivated and hard-working.