What happens in Year 9?

During your education you are asked to make choices that will affect your future. In Year 9 you will have to make the first of these choices when you decide what GCSE’s you will study during Year’s 10 and 11.  These are called your 'Options'.

There are lots of things you need to consider before making your final choice including:

• What subject choices are available in your school?
• Do you have a long-term career idea?
• What are your strengths and weaknesses at school/and in your home interests?
• What your tutors say about you.

There are lots of things you can do to help you in your choice:

Subject choice events

Most schools hold events for students, which are normally also open to your parents or carers to attend. You will be able to speak to subject tutors, look at examples of past work and compare exam results of previous students. Ask in your school office when your school is holding one and try to attend.

Classroom sessions

Many schools hold lessons during Personal Social Health Education (PSHE) or Careers to help students learn more about what is available and match the choices to them. These lessons tend to take place around the Christmas period and are seen as further preparation for students.

Connexions information room/Careers library

You will find lots of information about careers, jobs, the qualifications needed and what skills you need to do them within all of the above. Most students have a lesson to introduce them to their schools resource, but if you haven’t or have forgotten how to find what you need contact your Personal Adviser or Careers Co-ordinator who will be able to help you.

Publications

'Which Way Now'

This booklet is also produced on behalf of the Department of Education and Skills and copies will be issued direct to students via their school in January.

If you want further help in choosing what subjects are right for you, there is a lot of help available. You owe it to your-self that you spend time making sure you make the choices that are right for you.

Information for young people who need extra help or support

If you have a statement of special educational needs, a Connexions Personal Adviser will meet you to talk about your plans for the future. The adviser will help you to do an action plan about this. The adviser will also come to your transition meeting and help you explain your plans and needs.

You can download the document about transition planning which will help you to think about your future and what you like doing.

See also article on Extra help at shcool or college

Updated 060607