in the way of any kind of sensible writing (if you can call this
sensible) and quiet.
In approximately 8 weeks our eldest son, Ben, will sit his A levels (or
A2s as they are sometimes referred to here). It is quite mind blowing
that his first, and last, two years in school are nearing an end. How he
has fared I will leave for another post, perhaps I'll ask him to write
one, if I can catch him at home for long enough once he's 'free' again!
Much to my surprise (and to be honest, relief) the A levels are yet
again, being reformed. From September 2015 the A level course will be
linear; assessment only after two years, rather like it was when I did
my A levels all those years ago. The AS level will be retained but will
be a qualification in itself and so one can no longer go and and
complete a second year and turn it into an A level as Ben has done.
Additionally there is no longer any January exams available. Ben has
decided to re-sit one Unit of his first year and instead of being able
to do this in January just past, he has had to add it to his final exams
which has caused some extra pressure and worry. (More on my part it
must be said but then is it not a Mother's job to worry?)
Are these sensible and beneficial changes? I feel more at ease with two
years for A levels with no break for exams after what is really about 6
months. When Ben went into sixth form to study A levels, he found
himself after five tender months being told to begin preparing and
revising for the summer exams. It is much to take on and most students
(especially having gone from GCSEs which they do in schools and are a
poorer standard than the IGCSEs) have a tremendous shock at the work
load and the standard required of them to pass these exams well.
Here the home educated student is at an advantage- they have already
learnt to work independently and do not need constant guidance in their
research and learning. The depth of learning and requirements is a huge
difference for A levels- the schooled child suddenly finds they are no
longer spoon fed but feeding themselves.
So reforming the A levels to a two year course seems a good option to
me. It allows the student to master their subject more deeply and become
proficient at answering the exam questions and learning content more
assiduously without the constant reminder of threatening exams after
only a few months.
A levels remain well respected for their rigour and Universities require
them and prefer them to other qualifications. If your student is
seriously considering University, especially a Russell Group one
http://www.russellgroup.ac.uk/, then it might be worth considering the
more traditional A levels rather than the 'soft' options.
It feels like yesterday when Ben made his debut into school for the
first time ever. Now he is nearing the end and will, after a year doing
some voluntary work and seeing the world, enter a new phase of his life;
most probably University and I'm sure there will be a tale to tell
about that too...
May the most Holy Family keep all our dear children ever in their
prayers, and guide and govern them in their studies with discernment and
good judgement.
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