At the end of Grade 9 South African High School pupils must choose six subjects that will see them through high school, and form the basis of their post-school applications and endeavours.
This can be a stressful decision for some pupils and their parents. Start with the end in mind. If your child has an idea what they want to do after school, research which subjects are required for a course or career path.
Phoning the applications or career centre at a university or college is not difficult, and can save a lot of confusion and disappointment down the line. If your child (understandably) has no idea (or too many ideas) about what they want to do after school, look to your child’s academic strengths and interests. These strengths and interests will stay reasonably stable, and will more than likely form the basis of your child’s career interests and decisions later on.
A psychometric test administered by a professional can be useful for this. A pupil is also more likely to perform better in a subject they enjoy. Keep in mind that although some university and college courses have specific subject requirements (like Natural Science and Maths Core), many don’t.
However, all university and college courses will require a learner to meet certain point requirements.
Don’t unnecessarily compromise your child’s points by forcing them to take subjects that don’t interest them or they are not good at. If you are feeling unsure about this decision, seek help at your school or professional support from psychologists.
