IHETC School
After secondary — the routes and what they require
The first real choice of the path is prepared on three subjects and decided in a few weeks. Here is what each route assumes is in place, and the work that keeps the options open until decision time.
What is decided at this point
Two families of routes open up: continuing towards a general cycle, which prepares long studies, and vocational paths, which lead to a named occupation sooner. Neither is a fallback for the other: they are two different calendars, and the right choice depends on the plan as much as on the level. The decision is therefore prepared on facts, not on an overall average.
- The general cycle, preparing studies after the baccalauréat
- Vocational paths, leading to a named occupation sooner
- The subjects each of these routes assumes are holding
- The application calendar, to be placed in the working week
The three subjects that govern
- 01
Mathematics
Algebra, equations, proportion. These three govern almost every scientific route.
- 02
French
Understanding a long text and writing a sustained paragraph. Two habits that pay in every subject.
- 03
The subject of the intended route
Science, a language or a technical subject, depending on the plan. It is what separates a coherent file from an average one.
The work that keeps routes open
Consolidating the three subjects above keeps every route reachable until decision time, which is exactly the aim: to decide knowingly, on the planned date, rather than be steered by a file. The tutor works those topics first from the start of the year, and tracking shows the family where each stands, week after week.
Parents' questions
We are torn between two routes. What should we do until the decision?
Work on the subjects common to both, which are almost always mathematics and French. They keep both doors open and serve whatever the final choice. The tutor adds one weekly session on the subject specific to each route, which is enough to keep the less likely option available.
My child has no idea what they want to do.
That is true of most pupils at this age, and the answer lies in the work rather than in the conversation: consolidating the common subjects keeps the range open as long as possible, and a plan often emerges during the year. The tutor also flags the subjects where the pupil progresses most easily, which is useful information for the family.