Choices

Choices Matter

Excited? Confused? Worried? It's normal to feel this way at options time. Don't panic! This is your chance to take control of your learning and shape your future.

This section will point you towards some of the best websites, software programs and booklets out there. They’ll help you make really good decisions about your future.

Top decision-making tips!

• Concentrate on what YOU want. Don’t do something just to be part of the crowd.
• Give yourself lots of time to research your ideas. And make sure you use up to date information.
• Consider ALL the options open to you.
• Apply on time for all the options you are interested in. Make your final decision when you know your results.
• Apply for an Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) as soon as you can. Even before your place has been confirmed.
• Have a back-up plan. Your exam results might be better than you expect – or worse.
• Think ahead. Do you need to think about higher education? What qualifications and subjects will you need?
• If you can’t find the answer to a question – ask! There’s plenty of help and advice available to you.

The following diagram shows you what you need to think about. Each section shows the best websites, software and booklets to use. All the websites, software and booklets are explained in the A-Z list: