Skip to content Accesskeys Newsroom

Options in year 10

The subjects and qualifications you study over Years 11 and 12 will affect how you spend your time during your next two years at school. They could also help to set you up for the career or college course you might want to do later on.

Which way now?

Choosing subjects and qualifications to study in Years 11 and 12 can seem a bit scary, but don’t panic! There’s lots of information and advice to help you choose what’s right for you.

What sort of person are you?

To help you decide what to study in Year 11 and year 12, it's a good idea to start asking yourself what sort of person you are. Things like what you enjoy doing and what you're good at:

  • think about what you're like at home, as well as in school - what skills have you developed outside school?
  • ask yourself what types things you enjoy doing the most - for example, working things out and thinking them through, practical activities or artistic options like painting, drawing or performing music?
  • think about what you are most interested in: it could be languages, writing projects, helping people, being outdoors or designing things?

What do you want to do?

If you've got a particular career in mind, or you're hoping to go to university, then it's worth finding out if there are specific subjects you need to take.

How do you like to learn?

Studying at Year 11 and Year 12 isn't just about GCSEs. Depending on what's available at your school, you may also be able to choose from work-related qualifications, diplomas, Young Apprenticeships and courses in Key Skills like English and maths.

Subjects are taught in different ways and it may be that one teaching method suits you more than the others.

What you must do and what's up to you?

You'll have lots of options in Year 10, but there are some subjects so important that everyone has to take them. Follow the link below to find out more about compulsory and optional subjects. You will also find information about the different qualifications on offer.

How will you be assessed?

Chances are you'll have to do at least one exam for most of your subjects, but many also let you count coursework towards your final grade. Some subjects aren't all about written work and give you the chance to do practical assessments as well. Would that suit you?

Where can you get help and advice?

Most people look for advice when making important decisions. When it comes to choosing subjects and careers, you'll find there are lots of people ready to help you, but it's important for you to do as much as you can to check out all the options.

For help and information speak to:

  • a careers adviser from Careers Service Northern Ireland
  • a subject teacher - they know exactly what studying a subject in Year 11 and 12 will involve and can advise you whether it's right for you
  • a careers teacher - they can tell you which subjects and qualifications are suitable for certain careers
  • a special educational needs co-ordinator (SENCO) - this is the person at your school who can arrange support if you have a disability or learning difficulty which affects your studies
  • a volunteer or learning mentor - can help you to overcome the things that are getting in the way of your learning - ask if there is one at your school
  • family and friends - whatever your plans, it's a good idea to go over the subjects available with your parents, carers, family and friends. They probably know you best and understand your strengths and weaknesses, so talking to them can help you work out what might suit your skills and interests.