helpyouchoose.org

"Why can't I do just what I want?"

It may not be possible for your school to offer everything you want, when you want it. And unless you are very sure of what career you want to pursue, you should make sure you have a good balance of subjects rather than simply opting for your favourites.

"Is Year 10 and 11 a bit early to be studying for a

job-related qualification?"

A vocational qualification can be a good way of beginning learning about a job, and can give you a head start. As long as you have a balance with the rest of your subjects there isn't a problem. But don't feel you have to do a vocational qualification in Years 10 & 11. Do it if it's right for you.

"How do I find out what I would actually do in a subject in Years 10 and 11?"

Ask the subject teacher. Also try asking students in Years 10 or 11, and have a look at the work they've done.

"Why can't I just do what my best friend wants to do?"

You can – having friends around can be a big help when things aren't going well. But don't let someone else make your choices for you. Your friend isn't you, and what's perfect for them may not be right for you.

"I'll do German because Mrs Bloggs is my favourite teacher. What's wrong with that?"

Nothing, a good teacher can make a subject interesting, and if you're interested you're likely to do well. But what happens if Mrs Bloggs leaves or she doesn't teach you in Year 10? You have to like the subject as well as the teacher.

"I want to do a career that means I have to study a subject I'm useless at and don't like. What should I do?"

First check if you definitely need the subject. If you do you've got two choices – either work hard at the subject so you do well, or take a chance and dump it. Ask yourself why the career needs that subject and, if you hate it and can't do it, then have you got the right idea about that career?

"I'm stuck, what should I do?"

Talk to a Connexions Personal Adviser and see if they can help.

If your question isn't answered here, find out about other ways you can get help from the Other sources of information section.