School years are a time for exploring ideas and possibilities and finding out more about yourself. In making these decisions it is essential to look forward and consider carefully all the options. The choice of options may impact on opportunities in later years of study so it is important that you keep your subject choices as varied as possible.

Planning for your future should take into account:

• Your interests and abilities
• Which subjects you enjoy the most
• The skills you have and would like to develop
• Your future career interests
• Any subject requirements (pre-requisites) at the next level
• Any entry criteria for tertiary training

It is important that you are interested in and enjoy the subjects you choose. Some subjects which are not related strongly to a career may provide a base for future study.

As you plan your course and choose your options check:

• The prerequisites and co-requisites for entry to each subject
• The level at which each subject stops
• The number of credits generated by each subject
• The proportion of internal and external assessment in each subject
• Whether the subject offers Achievement Standards or Unit Standards or a combination
• Whether or not the subject is an approved subject
• What subjects, credits, grades are required for entry to the University or Technical institute course you are interested in attending
• The total subject course costs e.g. Photography
• That this subject equips you with skills, content and understandings you need to enter a certain career path
• That you have sufficient flexibility to change your course design if your career goals change

To make good decisions you need the right information. Discuss your subject choices with your family, students who are currently doing or have completed the course, teachers, Dean and Careers Advisor.

Think carefully, consult widely and choose wisely.

For full information about choosing your subjects please click here.

For information about subject options please click here.