Welcome to Exceptional Academics educational blog page. Here you can see topics that our tutors and specialists have written to provide hints, tips, additional material and best practices, helping our clients to aid their children in becoming exceptional academics themselves.
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It’s a question that resurfaces every few years: are GCSEs still fit for purpose?
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When it comes to post-GCSE education, two of the most popular choices for students in the UK are A-Levels and the International Baccalaureate (IB). But how do they compare, and which one is right for your child?
What are A-Levels?
A-Levels are subject-specific qualifications, typically taken by students aged 16-18. Most students take three to four subjects, allowing them to specialise in areas relevant to their chosen university degree.
What is the IB?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma is a broader academic programme requiring students to take six subjects (three at a higher level, three at a standard level) along with Theory of Knowledge (TOK), an Extended Essay (EE), and Creativity, Activity, and Service (CAS) components.
Key Differences
| Factor | A-Levels | IB |
|
Subjects |
3-4 subjects | 6 subjects |
|
Depth vs Breadth |
In-depth knowledge | Broad curriculum |
|
Coursework |
Varies by subject | Extended essay & internal assessments |
|
Assessment |
Mostly final exams | Mix of coursework & exams |
|
Recognition |
UK universities | Global recognition |
Which One Is Best?
Choose A-Levels if: Your child has strong subject preferences and wants to specialise in subjects they love or excel in.
Choose IB if: They prefer a broad education and might study abroad.
Regardless of the choice, expert guidance is key. Our tutors specialise in both A-Levels and IB examination preparation, and can support students in whichever examination curriculum they follow.
Email us for bespoke and subject-specialist A-level or IB advice!
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What Are A-Levels?
A-Levels (Advanced Level qualifications) are subject-based exams typically taken by students aged 16-18 in the UK. They play a crucial role in university admissions, as students usually need three strong A-Level grades to secure places at top universities.
A-Levels are divided into two parts:
AS vs. A2: What’s Changed?
Until 2015, AS-Levels counted as 50% of the final A-Level grade, but reforms removed this link. Now, AS-Level results no longer contribute to the final A-Level grade.
How Many A-Levels Should a Student Take?
Most students take three A-Levels, but some high-achievers take four. The right number depends on:
University requirements: Oxbridge and medicine applicants may benefit from four subjects.
Workload: A-Levels are significantly harder than GCSEs. Independent study and research are required at this level.
Course flexibility: Some students prefer to start with four subjects in Year 12 and then drop one in Year 13.
Choosing the Right Subjects
STEM fields: Maths, Physics, Chemistry, Biology.
Humanities & Social Sciences: English, History, Geography, Politics, Psychology.
Creative subjects: Art, Drama, Music.
Business & Economics: Economics, Business Studies, Accounting.
University Admissions: What Matters More?
Since AS results no longer contribute to A-Levels, universities now rely on:
Personal statement & references.
Admission tests & interviews: Required for Oxbridge, Medicine, and Law.
If you’re unsure which A-Levels to take, our expert subject specialists can guide you.
Email us now to discuss how we can help with bespoke and subject-specialist A-Level tutoring!
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Amina attended the recent Independent School Show (ISS) in London where Heads of some of the most prestigious schools were invited to speak at the podium to parents and provide insights on how to navigate the admissions process with success. One topic that came up was about how to develop good learning habits in children. Amina has provided a list of some of the things parents can do to set this process in motion.
Science Revision Top Tips written by our tutor Era.
We wanted to share an article written by our SEN team for the Nappy Valley Net Schools Guide 2022/23 highlighting the signs of Dyslexia.
If you suspect your child may have dyslexia:
Ask teachers to send key vocabulary for the week so your child can practise reading and spelling.
When reading aloud to them, ask them to jot down any word they do not understand or know how to spell onto colourful sticky notes. You can write down the correct spelling later. (A dyslexic child may not be able to find the word easily in the dictionary).
Younger children may find deconstructed words, written out onto jigsaw shapes, really useful. They can practise putting the words back together and reading the spelling aloud. Then they can practise writing the words, tracing over them using tracing paper.
A recent article from the Guardian (April 2022) inspired one of our tutors to write the following blog...
Julian - Education Consultant and Latin Teacher