The period after your GCE O/Ls is a golden window for every student to develop soft skills that make a real difference in university applications and future careers. Today’s modern job market and higher-education pathways place huge value on confident English language ability and basic IT / computer skills skills that employers and universities often treat as essential, not optional. For students planning to sit for A/Ls, spending this time on short, focused courses in English communication and practical computer skills will not only boost confidence but also open more pathways after A/Ls. The PACE Institute in Sri Lanka runs a broad range of after-O/L programmes including IT and professional skill tracks targeted at school leavers, making it a convenient local option to start building those foundations.

Practical English builds opportunity locally and globally
Strong spoken and written English helps students in classroom learning, online study, and international tests (where required). Local centres such as the British Council run English programmes specially designed for teenagers courses that develop speaking, listening and exam-ready skills for the upper-secondary age group and they also offer online learning resources that students can use for free to practice daily. Investing in structured English classes now means students enter A/L classes with better comprehension, improved presentation skills and higher confidence when applying for overseas scholarships or internships later on.

IT and computer skills that actually matter
Basic to intermediate IT skills using MS Office effectively, fundamentals of web design, introductory programming, and digital safety are among the most practical soft skills a school-leaver can pick up. Several respected local providers offer short, stackable pathways for after O/L students: national options such as NIBM’s certificate and diploma pathways in computing, SLIIT’s certificate programmes, and private institutes like ESOFT and PACE provide practical IT diplomas that can be completed before or alongside A/L preparations. These courses not only prepare students for tech-related degree routes but also add clear, demonstrable skills to an application or CV.

Why parents should be positive and guide practical steps
Parents play a key role in turning this time into progress. Encouraging children to sign up for a short-term English or IT course, to set a study timetable that balances tuition and skill building, and to celebrate small milestones (like finishing an online language module or building a simple website) creates sustained motivation. Look for accredited or well reviewed local courses (for example those run by PACE, British Council, NIBM, SLIIT or ESOFT) and ask for course outlines before enrolling this helps match the programme to the child’s interests and future pathway.

Pathways after A/Ls: how these skills pay off
Students who invest in English and IT skills before or during A/Ls find more options open to them after the exams: smoother entry to vocational diplomas, better performance in university interviews, and the ability to take online short-courses or international foundations. For example, completing an IT certificate or a recognized English course can be a stepping stone to degree foundation programs, professional diplomas, or immediate entry level roles that provide income while pursuing further studies. These practical pathways often help students avoid the pressure of “all or nothing” at A/L time and create real alternatives that families can plan around.

A simple plan you can follow now
Start small and measurable: set a 6–12 week plan that includes (1) daily English practice (reading, speaking and short writing tasks), (2) a weekend or evening IT certificate (basic computing, MS Office or an introductory programming module), and (3) weekly review with parents or a mentor to track progress. Choose a reputable provider near you PACE for combined IT & professional skills, British Council for structured teen English, or a national institute like NIBM/SLIIT/ESOFT for computing certificates and prioritise courses that offer practical, hands-on assignments and a certificate upon completion.

Final note invest time now, reap confidence later
This is the moment to build practical soft skills that will multiply the value of the hard work you put into A/Ls. English fluency and usable IT skills turn exam results into real opportunities for higher study, scholarships, and early-career roles. Parents: your encouragement and a positive, guided approach will help your child choose the right short courses and make this transitional year genuinely productive. Start small, pick a trusted local pathway, and celebrate progress the returns will show up long after the certificates are on the wall.