Can My Child Start a New A-level or Complete One in a Year? A Guide for Parents
It is natural to feel uncertain when your child wants to change direction during their A-level studies or is considering completing a full A-level course in just one year. These may seem like bold or risky decisions, but with the right preparation, mindset, and environment, they are not only realistic but often highly successful.
At Ashbourne, we have seen many students take this path and go on to achieve excellent results and places at top universities. As a parent, your role is to help your child explore their options, ask the right questions, and feel supported in taking the next step, whether that means starting fresh or accelerating their studies.
When a New Subject is the Right Move
Sometimes, students reach the end of Year 12 and realise that one of their A-level subjects is not the right fit. This might be because their interests have shifted, the subject was not what they expected, or their university ambitions have changed. In other cases, they discover new strengths and want to pivot toward a subject that better suits their skills or future goals.
Changing an A-level subject in Year 13 requires commitment and maturity, but it can be the right move. It often brings renewed motivation, especially if your child is genuinely interested in the new subject. At Ashbourne, we help students make this transition smoothly by putting in place personalised learning plans that allow them to catch up on Year 12 content while staying aligned with Year 13 studies. This might include your child speaking to their personal tutor to organise a timetable that fits their goals.
Small class sizes, close relationships with teachers, and regular check-ins help ensure that your child receives the support they need to succeed. Many of our students who switched subjects at this stage went on to achieve top grades, because they were studying something they cared about and had access to targeted academic guidance.
Completing an A-level in One Year
Additionally, your child may be considering taking an entire A-level in one academic year for a range of reasons: they might be retaking a subject to improve their grade, returning to education after a break, or strategically adding a new subject to strengthen a university application.
Completing a full A-level in one year is an intensive process. Your child will cover two years’ worth of material in less than twelve months, often with more lessons per week and a faster pace. It demands strong time management and a high level of commitment. That said, it is entirely manageable with the right structure and attitude.
At Ashbourne, we have designed our one-year A-level courses to support this accelerated learning. Lessons are carefully planned, feedback is frequent and detailed, and students benefit from personalised attention that helps them stay on track. This environment works especially well for students who are highly focused and ready to put in the effort to succeed. Many of our one-year A-level students achieve outstanding results and feel a renewed sense of confidence in their academic ability.
What to Consider as a Parent
Whether your child is thinking about switching subjects or taking a one-year A-level, these choices are not shortcuts. They require discipline, determination, and clarity of purpose. As a parent, it is helpful to frame the decision as an opportunity to take ownership of their learning, rather than a sign that something has gone wrong.
Encourage your child to speak with their teachers, academic advisors, or pastoral staff before making any final decision. These conversations can help assess whether the change makes sense, what kind of support will be needed, and how to build a manageable plan moving forward.
At Ashbourne, we always advise students to make thoughtful choices with a long-term view. When students feel heard, supported, and involved in shaping their academic journey, they are far more likely to stay motivated and achieve success.
Bottom Line
At Ashbourne, we are proud to have supported many students through exactly this kind of journey, with results that speak for themselves. If your child is ready for a change, or eager to move quickly toward their goals, this could be the beginning of something exciting and meaningful.
1. Can my child start a new A-level in Year 13?
Yes, many students successfully start a new A-level in Year 13. With a personalised learning plan and extra support, they can catch up on Year 12 content while progressing with Year 13 studies.
2. Is it possible to complete a full A-level in one year?
Yes, one-year A-level courses are designed for students who need to cover the full syllabus in less than twelve months. It’s intensive but highly effective with the right structure and commitment.
3. Why would a student take an A-level in one year?
Students often complete a one-year A-level if they are retaking to improve grades, returning after a break in education, or strategically adding a subject to boost their university application.
4. How challenging is it to study an A-level in one year?
It is demanding because two years of content are condensed into one. However, with strong time management, focused teaching, and consistent effort, many students achieve excellent results.