Where can I find help choosing my GCSE or National options?

It might feel overwhelming choosing which subjects to take at GCSE or National Qualification level, but there is help at hand!

If you can’t decide which subjects to choose for the future you want, watch the video below for some guidance from our careers advisors about the help that may be available to you when deciding on your options.

Where to get help with your options

Attend an options evening

Some schools will offer an options evening where you can chat to the teachers about each subject. You can learn about what you’ll study, the coursework, the homework and the final exam. This is a great place to start to find out about what options are available to you.

Talk to a careers adviser

A lot of schools have a careers adviser – they’ll be able to give you advice and talk you through different options you might want to explore. If you don’t have a careers advisor, there are some great websites like the National Careers Service, My World of Work in Scotland, Careers Wales and The Careers Service Northern Ireland, or you could check if your local authority has a careers service. You could also try BBC Bitesize Careers. Taking careers advice may help you decide which options may be best suited for the type of job you want to do in the future.

Speak to your teachers and older pupils

It’s a great idea to speak to your form tutor and also the teachers of the subjects you’re thinking of taking – ask them what they think of you taking that subject for GCSE or National Qualification. You could also talk to older pupils who've taken a GCSE or National Qualification in the subject you're interested in. Ask them about how much homework there is, the course work, the final exam, and what you'll learn. Teachers and older pupils have all been there before, they'll have some great advice and tips – but remember, the decision on what option to take is yours!

Hear from students and teachers about some of the most popular GCSE and National subjects in The Ultimate Options Guide.

Think about the future

It’s a good idea to have a think about what you want to do in the future and how your GCSEs or National Qualifications can help you get there. Your careers adviser, PSHE teacher, form tutor, pastoral support or guidance teacher could help you think this through. There are plenty of people who can help you make your decision, so do your research and don't be afraid to ask questions!

If you need support

You should always tell someone about the things you’re worried about. You can tell a friend, parent, guardian, teacher, or another trusted adult. If you're struggling with your mental health, going to your GP can be a good place to start to find help. Your GP can let you know what support is available to you, suggest different types of treatment and offer regular check-ups to see how you’re doing.

If you’re in need of in-the-moment support you can contact Childline, where you can speak to a counsellor. Their lines are open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.

There are more links to helpful organisations on BBC Action Line.