through written exams. A level subjects include but are not limited to: Art, Accounting, Biology, Business Studies, Chemistry, Computing, Design, Technology, Drama, English, Economics, French, Geography, German, Government and Politics, History, IT, Mathematics, Media Studies, Music, Music Technology, Physical Education, Physics, Psychology, Religious Studies, Sociology, Critical Thinking ,General Studies, Spanish, Textiles etc. Those less academically able or poor at sitting written exams choose to do vocational courses where assessments are through coursework and NOT written exams. A levels and vocational courses typically last two years, after which the students apply to join university, direct employment or other forms of training including apprenticeships (on the job training). For students who do exceptionally well at GCSE and hoping to join top UK universities, it’s important that they choose and study for A levels and very importantly choose old traditional subjects such as Mathematics, English, Sciences, history, geography, economics etc. The top UK universities have a canny preference for these traditional subjects. UK Universities are not the same; some are good in some degree courses and not others. Asking for help and getting the right information shouldn’t be hard. Parents must not be deceived by the promise of free education and should where possible offer additional support themselves at home and where necessary enrol the pupils for additional tuition in Maths, English and Science. Research evidence has shown that immigrants who encourage their children to study for the old traditional subjects discussed above; result in their making faster progress in their adopted countries; succeeding financially and gaining rapid economic security and general acceptance-as well as envy!. It is the secret Asians, Chinese and Jews realised long ago and this may explain their success in education and near dominance in the professional cadres in the UK and elsewhere in the world; where top skills are needed from the NHS, Pharmacies, Banking, law, Accountancy and Finance etc. Kenyans can follow a similar path since education remains the shortest path to success in the UK and elsewhere. Conclusion. I don’t suggest that all Kenyan children in the UK have to study for medical, law, engineering or Accounting and finance careers. Of course there are opportunities in other disciplines. What’s without doubt is that parents should do their part to encourage and support their children to aspire, achieve and exploit the many opportunities available in this country. This article is not exhaustive. I don’t claim to know everything about education in Britain. However taking action early is better than waiting too late as the longer a parent waits, the harder it gets to take helpful action. The writer teaches at a college in London. He was previously a visiting lecturer in Accounting, Business Strategy & Economics at the University Of East London. He has also offered private tuition to pupils over many years. Parents who may wish to get advice and guidance on tuition materials to support their children form years 2-9 (Ages 6-14) can contact me on: 07958777350 or email me on: prolearnuk@gmail.com 30 1ST EDITION | JULY 2016
1ST EDITION | JULY 2016 31