How to choose your A level subjects

If you choose to take A levels at d'Overbroeck's, you'll choose from a range of almost 40 subjects – many of which you'll never previously have had the chance to study.

It's an exciting prospect – but also, perhaps, a difficult choice to make.

What factors should you take into account?

Your interests and strengths

For which subjects do you feel you have particular potential and enthusiasm?

Your ambitions and future plans

If you want to study Medicine at university, for instance, are certain A levels required? If you're interested in a legal career, which subjects might best enhance your prospects?

The combination of subjects

Is your selection balanced and appropriate? Consider the practicalities ("Will I have too many essays to write?") and also the relationship between the subjects themselves ("Is it a good idea to study both Business Studies and Economics?")

Differences between GCSE and AS study

If you've studied any of your chosen subjects previously, it is a good idea to find out to what degree these will change at A level.

The benefits of exploring subjects that are new to you

You'll probably be keen to find out about these new possibilities. What precisely is Communication & Culture? Psychology? Classical Civilisation?

How do we help you decide?

As you'll probably appreciate, this is an important series of choices. You're at a pivotal point in your education, exerting a great deal of influence on your future degree and career.

...So we certainly don't expect you to make such decisions unaided. Here's how we'll help you choose:

• At your initial interview, we'll discuss subject choice in some depth
• Subsequently, you'll have the opportunity to return on another occasion and sit in on classes, to get a better feel for your options
• We'll arrange follow-up meetings with senior staff, so that you can discuss your thoughts in more detail
• Our subject booklet and online subject profiles outline the nature and demands (as well as the rewards) of each subject
• Perhaps most importantly, we'll give you time. We don't rush students into a decision, but allow you time to research the subjects and talk to friends and teachers. And you'll have the freedom to change your mind.