Hi @zurox,
I’m currently a first-year student at Birmingham City University and I can relate to the struggle of not getting the grades you want throughout your A Levels.
Although I didn’t study Biology and Chemistry A Level, I did have a similar issue with A Level German, receiving lower grades in tests than I would have liked and feeling unsure about the subject.
My best suggestion would be to chat to your subject teachers about your grades and about how you can progress. Before making decisions about changing subjects or retaking a year, it could be helpful to find out their opinion on what you could do to improve your grades.
If you’re enjoying the subjects and want to continue studying them, I would try not to worry about the idea of taking another year out for your A Levels. It wouldn’t be a wasted year, as it gives you the opportunity to focus on your subjects and achieve the grades you really want.
Sometimes it can feel stressful or a waste to retake a year, or to start a new subject, especially if your peers are continuing to do something else, like university. But I think it’s important to take your time and focus on yourself, and to understand that taking another year shouldn’t be a negative choice.
I hope this helps, and feel free to ask more questions.
Emily
Student Ambassador at Birmingham City University.