The Hit List GCSE Surgery Podcast 2024 with EKC Group

EP1: ROUTES IN EDUCATION POST GCSE & GENERAL ADVICE

Episode Summary

Welcome to the Hit List GCSE Surgery podcast recorded live in front of an audience at EKC Canterbury College with your host Ben Pearce. Whether you've aced your exams or didn't hit your targets, we're here with advice on your next steps in education.

Episode Notes

THE HIT LIST GCSE SURGERY 2024 with EKC GROUP 

Episode 1 -  Routes In Education Post GCSEs & General Advice

Key Points Discussed: 

Supportive Environment: The panel emphasises the supportive nature of colleges, especially for students navigating their next steps after GCSEs. 

Diverse Educational Routes: There are various pathways available post-GCSE: continuing with a sixth form at school or college, BTEC qualifications, T levels (employer-led), and apprenticeships. 

Understanding Choices: Difference between A levels, T levels, and apprenticeships is clarified. A levels involve studying multiple subjects academically; T levels focus on one area with practical experience; apprenticeships offer learning while earning in an industry setting. 

Decision Support: Students have access to career advisers who can guide them through choosing what to study based on interests and results. 

6th Form at College vs School: At college, the atmosphere is more focused on independence without younger years present. It offers flexibility in subject choices and additional qualifications like EPQ (Extended Project Qualification). 

Advice for Results Day: 

1. Take time to process your results – whether they're cause for celebration or require reassessment of plans.
2. Seek advice from family members who've gone through similar experiences.
3. Consult careers advisers – available both in schools and colleges – they can help create action plans tailored to individual needs.
4. Explore all options passionately – consider personal motivation when selecting courses or career paths.
5. Industry Experience at College:
   • ILOs provide placements related to course pathways ensuring hands-on experience that complements academic learning. 

Action Plan After Receiving GCSE Results:

1. Accept any offers if you’ve met desired grades; if not sure about your path yet or haven’t achieved expected grades, speak with college representatives who can guide you towards suitable alternatives 
2. Don't make knee-jerk decisions; always seek guidance first 
3. Remember that there's always a level/pathway available leading toward chosen careers even if initial expectations aren't met