Managing the move from GCSE to A level

As the new school year approaches, many students will be basking in the glory of their GCSE result success and delighting that they do not have to study certain subjects ever again. What lies ahead are two years of studying subjects they have opted to study, subjects which have caught their interest in their academic journey so far, subjects that will prepare them for what they want to do after leaving school. However, the jump from GCSE to A level is considerable and can be one that many students struggle to navigate.

With A level, there is an expectation that students engage in independent study. This varies between subjects but could entail reading additional texts, researching particular topics or working as part of a small group on developing a key skill. In 6^th form, students are given the time for these additional study tasks, and it can be a challenge for many students to manage their time effectively. Reiterate to your 6^th former that free periods, whilst not scheduled class time, are part of the curriculum and should be used to work on homework or additional study. The content at A level is, as you would expect, much more challenging than at GCSE. The GCSE curriculum caters for all learners regardless of their ability; there are areas of study that are generally accessible to all, moving to more challenging concepts and skills. At A level, this is not the case. Students have been allowed to study their chosen subjects because they have achieved a certain grade at GCSE therefore the starting point is based on the assumption that they have a solid grounding from the GCSE course. There is rarely foundational work but straight in at the deep end. There is also the assumption that students have chosen their A level subjects because they are interested in them. Therefore, many teachers will expect their students to go beyond the curriculum requirements to broaden their subject knowledge. Students may be given additional activities to complete, however they can supplement their studies by engaging in additional research – reading subject-specific literature or magazines, listening to podcasts, watching relevant documentaries or lectures on YouTube or TED Talks.

Being organised is key to success at A level. With independent study expected alongside timetabled curriculum study, homework tasks, and potentially other activities, it is vital that students keep track of their work. Simple things like having clearly organised and folders (whether electronically or paper) can help; having the appropriate stationery – highlighters, page markers, post-it notes – is important; keeping textbooks close at hand, and electronic devices charged so there’s no last-minute scramble to get an assignment done; a planner or diary is helpful to keep track of deadlines and significant events such as assessments, mocks, university open days, etc. These may all seem like small, insignificant things, but they can all help to keep students focused and take away small, unnecessary stressors.

The most important thing of all for students who are starting their A levels is that they must be open with their struggles. They need to know who to speak to with regards to issues or concerns they have. Dedicated 6^thform staff can help students with their time management, any pastoral issues, academic issues or whatever else may arise. If a student is struggling academically then they must speak to their subject teacher(s) in order to receive additional support; this could take the form of extra tuition, further study resources, or simple reassurance. If they do not speak up, they will not get the help. It is important that students know that the jump from GCSE is a considerable one and no matter how easily some of their peers may be appearing to navigate this, it is a struggle for all. Being organised, independent, and open to support are all key for success, as well as being excellent skills to develop as they move towards their end of their school career.