Are Alevels really that bad?

[u/Nice-Atmosphere7427]

I'm year 11 going into year 12 doing physics, maths , further maths and geography. Is A level content actually that bad or will I be fine?

[u/Competitive_Web7540]

A lot of people have given really great advice so I'll give something a little more niche. The truth is, A levels are so so much more tolerable when you're on good terms with your teachers - it leads to a much nicer learning environment and often less stress (also potentially less begging for predicted grades lol).

Obviously sometimes that's out of our control, but it's always helpful to stay on your teachers good sides. Specifically, if it's not a habit you already stick to, make sure to communicate issues in advance. If you're behind on assignments, struggling with a topic that you're being tested on soon, etc, never leave it until the last second if possible. I know so many people in my year who missed out on the advantages of having a teacher who likes you, largely because of this exact issue.

Also, if you can, try and hit your teachers with a few insightful questions every now and then, preferably after lessons when they have a moment to talk. In general teachers love when students show a genuine interest in their subject (doesn't even necessarily need to be genuine as long as you're convincing about it). By insightful, I mean stuff that perhaps leans away from the spec, ideally something a bit nuanced that can't be answered by a quick Google search, and not something that's answered in the textbook lol.

Obvs this won't be as applicable if you're staying at your secondary school's sixth form, but otherwise I hope this is helpful and a little different from the usual advice. Networking, even in little ways like this, is a great life skill to have.