Parents & Carers :

If your child is in Years 7 - 9

In year 9 your son or daughter gets to choose their options for years 10 and 11 and it could shape the rest of their lives – to help them make the right decisions encourage them to talk to their  Personal Adviser and teachers about any plans for the future.

When they choose GCSE and other subjects they should think about:

• jobs they might want to do in the future and what subjects they might require
• which subjects they enjoy
• which subjects they are good at
• subjects on offer that they have not studied before
• building upon their strengths and skills
• keep an open mind- don’t think about ‘girl’s’ subjects or ‘boys’ subjects – all courses are open to them

Remember some subjects they will have to do and others they can choose so make sure they research their options properly

You can always check out Which Way Now – a booklet written especially for year 9 students.

If they are starting to think about the type of job they might like look at Jobs4U at www.connexions-direct.com/jobs4u. Useful information on GCSEs in vocational subjects can be found on www.vocationallearning.org.uk.

Parents and Carers of Year 9 Students is a national publication designed to help you support your child. If your child is in Year 9 you should have received a copy. You can also download it from www.connexions.gov.uk/parentcarer/ or ring 0800 389 3899. This is available in a range of alternative languages