Applications

Navigating secondary school applications with ease: practical tips, essential timelines, and expert guidance.

A student sitting on steps looking at her A Level results after results day

10 min read

What if you fail your A Levels? Next steps after A Level results

Have you failed your A Levels and you're trying to plan out your next step? This guide explains your options, from remarking and appeals to university through clearing, retakes, gap years, and apprenticeships.

Liam Hindson

08 Feb, 2026

Cover image showing a GCSE exam paper with tick boxes for English, Maths and Science, alongside school stationery and the headline “How Many GCSEs Do You Need To Take?”

Student

13 min read

How many GCSEs do you need?

This guide looks at the typical number of GCSEs students sit and what the minimum requirements are. We explain GCSE grading, the timeline for choosing options, and recent trends in popular subjects to help students make informed, confident decisions.

Liam Hindson

04 Jan, 2026

Student

15 min read

Top 10 Hardest GCSE subjects - Choosing your GCSEs

When deciding on GCSE options, one consideration is the difficulty of the subject. This guide ranks the 10 hardest GCSE subjects in order, using 2025 UK results plus real challenges like maths load, content volume and exam style. Get a clear snapshot of difficulty, what each subject demands and practical next steps.

Liam Hindson

20 Oct, 2025

Student

6 min read

Calculate UCAS tariff points: How UCAS points work

Discover how UCAS points work and their importance in the university application process for A-Level students.

Liam Hindson

13 May, 2024

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Student

9 min read

How to write your personal statement

Essential strategies for crafting a standout university personal statement designed for final year A-Level students. Learn what admissions tutors look for, how to structure your statement and the dos and don'ts that will make your application shine.

Liam Hindson

06 May, 2024

A guide to applying for secondary school, including dates and school types

Student

9 min read

When and how to apply for secondary school

A guide to applying to secondary school for your child - inc. the admission process, the application deadline, how to appeal & when you hear if you got a place.

Liam Hindson

05 May, 2023

A beginner guide to the 11 plus exam, including the schools that require this examination.

Student

9 min read

The 11 plus exam - A guide for Parents

11 plus exam guide to help your child with exam preparation for secondary school entry, inc. grammar schools. Covers exam practice, inc. practice papers.

Liam Hindson

03 May, 2023