Course Choice for S6

Senior Phase Course Choice – Course Choice for S6

In S6, pupils may choose to broaden their qualifications by sitting more courses at Level 4/5/6 or may strive to improve their qualifications by embarking on Advanced Higher/Level 7 courses which introduce pupils to the kind of course content they might experience at university.

Learning and Teaching approaches in Advanced Higher classes also replicate University courses, pupils are expected to work far more independently and commit to a degree of self-study.

Wider Achievement options also give S6 pupils opportunities to further develop their skills.

S6 Pupils must take:

3 Adv Highers + 1 Wider Achievement or Work Experience

OR

4 courses + 1 Wider Achievement or Work Experience

In addition, S6 pupils will have 1 period of PSE. There will also be an increasing number of opportunities for pupils to take on leadership opportunities. It is important that pupils in S6 follow a course of study which is challenging and worthwhile. Guidance teachers will discuss with each pupil the number and level of courses that should be followed in S6. This will be based on the pupil’s performance in S4/5 courses, and the work rate and attitude they have demonstrated in their school life so far.

Course Choice in S6

Before making course choice decisions, pupils should consider the following questions:

Strengths - Which courses do you enjoy and are good at? Where do your skills / talents lie? Based on S5 progress, which courses might you be most successful in during S6?

School reports will give recommendations about which courses would be the best suited to pupil’s strengths. Faculty Heads and Subject Teachers can give advice about the demands of each course and course choice will be discussed with Guidance Teachers.

Career Plans - Do you have a clear idea of what you wish to do once you have left school? If so, do you know what specific qualifications you will need? 

It is important that pupils think carefully and make informed choices at this point in their school life. A bit of research now is vital! 

Course Information

Please visit our Mintlaw Academy DYW website to learn more about all the different courses available in S6.

Course Information 2026/27

Further Careers Information

Our Mintlaw Academy DYW website also has further information regarding career pathways and advice. You’ll find links to information about College, University, Apprenticeships and careers information from Skills Development Scotland.

Mintlaw Academy DYW Website