There are a wide variety of subjects to choose from at Sir Gâr 6. Some of these you will be familiar with, and some will be completely new to you, so it is important that you give this some thought by considering all your options. It is also important to remember that most universities require three A-levels.

Key points to consider:

• What subjects are you good at and most likely to enjoy?
• Are there specific subjects that you will need to study a course at a particular university, or to pursue a certain career?
• If you are undecided about what you want to do after A-levels, what subjects are most likely to keep your options open?

What subjects are you good at and most likely to enjoy?

It is important that you choose subjects that will maximise your potential and enable you to make a competitive and worthy application to university or a career. Think about what you are good at.

For example, consider whether you are comfortable with extended writing, as some subjects require you to write multiple essays. Or, are you better suited to subjects where short, direct answers are required?

You will take fewer subjects at A-level than you did at GCSE, meaning that you will spend more time studying each subject. Therefore, it will be beneficial to choose subjects that you find are both enjoyable and interesting, so that you are motivated to study and succeed.

Remember, if you are looking at a subject that you have not studied before then it is important to attend a college open evening to find out more. Here, you can talk to staff who will help you decide if it is a right fit for you, and if it suits your learning style.

Are there specific subjects and subject combinations you should consider?

If you have a career goal or subject that you wish to study at university then it is vital that you think ahead. Some university courses and careers require that you have studied a particular subject, or even a certain combination of subjects.

Do bear in mind that not all university degrees ask for specific A-levels, but it is always worth checking. You can do this at www.ucas.com.

Some subject combinations work well together. For example, biology and chemistry; mathematics and physics; government and politics and law; history and English literature.

Combinations like these are good because they aid your understanding of one another and help to develop your academic skills.

Are you undecided and want to keep your options open?

It is perfectly understandable if you are not sure what you want to study at university, or if you don't want to go at all. If this is you, consider the eight 'facilitating' subjects listed by Russell Group universities, these will help you keep your degree options open until you decide which course to take:

• Biology - View Course >>
• Chemistry - View Course >>
• English Literature - View Course >>
• Geography - View Course >>
• History - View Course >>
• Maths and Further Maths - View Course >>
• Modern Languages - View Courses >>
• Physics - View Course >>

Taking one or two facilitating subjects will, in most cases, keep a wide range of degrees and careers open to you. All A Levels are a significant ‘step up’ from GCSE. They will challenge you, and students who complete these qualifications are motivated to strive to succeed in academic, business, industrial and creative pursuits.

To help you make your final decision, do chat to the subject lecturers at the college and read the specifications for the subjects you are interested in as sometimes subjects can have a different focus at A-Level than GCSE.