Choosing your course or subjects at school
During the year you will need to make decisions about what classes or subjects to study in the next year. There are three key issues you should consider:
What do I enjoy studying and what am I good at?
The chances of you doing well and achieving the standards you enter are better when you enjoy the subjects, or have what can be called 'a natural talent' for them. These are subjects you should look at first when choosing next year's course.
Your school will provide a list of options or choices. Many schools also provide opportunities in Years 9 and/or Year 10 to sample a variety of subjects. Doing this gives you some experience of what the subject is about and whether it will suit you or not.
If you are thinking of a subject but don't know much about it, talk to a teacher.
What do I want do after school?
It is sensible to choose subjects which relate to what you want to do after you leave school. Many careers or qualifications have special requirements. For example if you want to be a motor mechanic it makes sense to consider one of the technology subjects like metalwork. Or if you think a career in medicine appeals to you, you would be advised to do science subjects like chemistry and biology.
If you don't know what you want to do, the best path is to do as 'broad' a range of subjects as possible, to keep as many options open as possible.
Are there any special requirements I need to be aware of?
Many schools require all students to study English Maths and Science at Year 11, but then only English at Year 12, and have no compulsory subject at Year 13. Your choices will have to fit around these requirements.
If you are planning to go to university, or even just keep it as an option, you need to make sure your courses allow you meet the entrance requirements. You will need a certain number of credits at Level 3 as well in Mathematics (Level 1) and Reading and Writing (Level 2).
Further information
Whatever stage you're at, you should look for advice and think carefully about what you're told. Parents, friends, teachers, careers advisors, and Career Services are sources of advice you should use.
To contact 
Career Services rapuara
for free course and training information:
- Phone 0800 222 733
- Email careers@careers.govt.nz
Page updated: 14 September 2007