So what should I be doing now ?

What should I be doing now?

This is a question I get asked frequently at this time of year, as Year 12s / Lower Sixth are suddenly aware that decisions for universities and futures are not that far away, and Year 13s / Upper Sixths are approaching the end of their exams. This is what I would suggest from my experience.

Year 12s / Lower Sixths

The focus has to be on mocks if you have not yet finished them, though hopefully these are nearly over. Once they are, this is your chance to relax a little and enjoy exploring the many options open to you with no time pressure. Www.ucas.com has all the tools to help you to do this, if you are not yet registered on their website, make sure you are, and then use the different tools. This is an unmatched set of resources, specifically created for you : the careers quizzes are fun, and give an idea of what you might not even have considered, whilst typing in your A level / BTEC choices results in a wide range of courses that could get you thinking. Now is the time to dream big, explore options without any pressure. Also take the opportunity to think about where you might like to live albeit part time for three or four years. You should aim to visit some University Open Days at this time, just to get the feel of the place and see whether it has a good vibe. Parents are welcome at these events, or friends, and use then as a chance to explore another part of the country as well as see how university feels. Enjoy and explore the many options before you hone in on your five choices in August / September. Think outside of the box and enjoy exploring.

Year 13s / Upper Sixths

A levels are nearly over. Well done for surviving and enjoy the prospective heatwave as you enjoy a well deserved rest. Some of you might be a little anxious about how the exams went, there is nothing you can do now, so chill until the 5th July. This is when the UCAS clearing opens. It is worth having a plan B, if only to allay your nerves. So if you think your exams went badly, have a look at clearing and see if there is a course that you might enjoy with slightly lower access grades – it could be at the same university or a different course altogether. Make a note, and this can be your plan B. Once you have done this, you have done all you can. Relax until mid August and Results Day This also works for those who may be having second thoughts and might want to change their options. Have a look at clearing, make a note of courses you might be interested in, and then on Results Day you can contact that university, secure a place and then make the change. Full details of clearing are on the UCAS website.

So, things to be doing as ever, but most of all enjoy this time. Happy hunting.