The ability to study A Levels via distance learning providers represents a huge opportunity to many of us. It could be we didn’t get the grades we wanted, or we didn’t study the right subjects for a career we now want.
Regardless, distance learning gives us a second bite of the learning cherry.
Distance learning also allows you to fit your studies around your existing commitments. Which means you don’t have to choose between learning and family time.
Or have to deal with the anxiety of making it to class on time if you’re studying with a traditional college or adult education provider.
The only question remains is what A Levels to take.
The fact is that there is no best or worst course. All the course materials are tailored to be suitable for independent learning.
It’s is all relative. If Mathematics isn’t a subject you enjoy, then it’s not necessarily the course for you.
The exception being if the degree or career you want to work towards requires maths, then you may have to grin and bear it for a few months.
The more useful question is what A Levels will help you achieve your academic and professional ambitions?
I want to be a Teacher
Teaching is a challenging but highly rewarding job, as you help future generations learn and develop into successful and valued members of society.
Depending on the kind of teacher you want to be will determine the qualifications you need. Regardless of whether you want to teach at primary or secondary level you will need GCSEs in Maths and English at Grade C (5) or above.
For future primary school teachers, you need at least 2 A Levels in order to be accepted on to a Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) course.
Alternatively, you can study the undergraduate subject of your choice and then study a PGCE (post-graduate certificate in education).
This is also the route you’ll take into secondary teaching. Your degree will usually be in the subject you wish to teach – or something closely related. You will then need to study a PGCE.
In most cases your A Levels will need to be related to your chosen field of study, so choose carefully.
Maths and science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) teachers are in short supply so if you have an interest in those areas you are definitely helping your employment chances.
It’s always worth checking with the universities you’re applying to what their entry requirements are.
I want to help people
Fortunately, we live in a time when there are lots of ways we can support individuals experiencing challenges. Whether they are mental health issues, physical or learning disabilities, there are several professions that can make a difference to people’s lives.
A Levels in Psychology and Sociology open a range of different opportunities for further study and employment.
Pursuing an A Level in sociology can lead to a career in criminology, social or youth work, life coaching, journalism, law enforcement and charity work.
An A Level in Psychology can lead to a career as a clinical psychologist, a therapist or counsellor. You can also move into support individuals special educational needs.
Psychology can also take you towards a career in HR, play therapy, education, and law enforcement.
I want to go into Medicine
Whether you want to become a nurse or a doctor, your educational path is similar at this stage.
If you want to be a doctor you need to have A Levels in biology, chemistry and physics or maths (or both) at Grade A (7) or above.
If you don’t get ‘straight As’ then there’s a good chance you won’t be accepted onto a medical degree. The reason being it’s a fiercely competitive field and the universities can pick and choose who they want.
If you’re training to be a nurse, you’ll need at least 2 A Levels, one of which needs to be biology. The other can be in a related subject such as chemistry, psychology or sociology.
You don’t need top marks to be accepted on to a nursing degree but obviously the higher the grades the better.
I want to be a Scientist
Obviously, the kind of scientist you see yourself becoming will inform the qualifications you study for.
Each core science has a corresponding subject: biology, chemistry and physics. In most instances you’ll need an A Level in maths also.
Because each area of science contains so many subsets, you’ll have plenty of time to decide where you want to your career to take you.
A Levels in the sciences can take you down the paths of anthropology, forensic science, theoretical physics, environmental science, medical research, biochemistry, geology and more.
The opportunities are significant. But, much like medicine, most courses are highly competitive so make sure you put the work in to ensure a place on your chosen degree course.
I want to go into Business
Much like science, the term business covers many roles. It depends if you see yourself as an entrepreneur or the person behind the visionary making everything happen.
The Steve Wozniak to Steve Jobs.
A Levels in Economics and Accounting will help you understand the mechanics of business and where the money goes. Both within your own organisation and in the wider economy.
Business studies, on the other hand, helps you to understand how to operate a business day-to-day. Notably when it comes to managing teams, demonstrating leadership and giving the business a clear sense of focus.
Business studies will teach you how to identify objectives, develop strategies and understand the difference between the two.
Whatever your ambitions, studying A Levels will help you get there. They are an internationally recognised qualification that will get you into universities both in the UK and abroad.
You also have the advantage that you can tailor your courses either to meet academic requirements or your personal areas of interest.
If you are planning on using your A Levels to go to university, check with the universities you’re applying to what the course requirements are. This is to avoid disappointment further down the road.
Whichever A Level courses you opt for, Stonebridge Associated Colleges can help you in your studies. All you need to do is get in touch with a member of the sales team or enrol online. There are flexible payment terms available to help you spread the cost.
You will also have access to a dedicated tutor who will help you through the process. Check out our blog for useful tips on how to get the most out of your study experience.
Click below to check out our A Level courses and enrol today.
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