Information on Options
Choosing GCSE options in Year 9 is an exciting milestone for your child. It is the first time they can tailor their education to their interests and aspirations. These decisions will influence future pathways, including post-16 choices such as sixth form, college, apprenticeships, and ultimately university or employment. We understand that this can feel daunting, so our aim is to make the process as smooth and informed as possible.
To support students, we have planned a range of activities. Following our information evening on Thursday 15th January pupils will be offered short information sessions for new subjects such as Business, Marketing and Enterprise, 3D Design, Media Studies, Creative Media Production, Classical Civilisation, and Health and Social Care, as well as taster sessions in all other subjects during lesson time.
Making an informed decision is essential. Students should read the information provided in this booklet and on the school website. They are encouraged to speak to their teachers about subject suitability, transferable skills, and potential career pathways. Talking to current students and discussing choices at home will also help ensure decisions are well thought out.
Our curriculum is designed to be broad and balanced, relevant and challenging, and to provide enjoyment and opportunities for progression. All students will study core subjects, including
- English Language and Literature
- Mathematics
- Science
- Core PE
- Core RS
In addition, they will choose four option subjects from a wide range, including GCSEs in Computer Science, Geography, History, French, Spanish, 3D Design, Business, Classical Civilisation, Media Studies, Design & Technology, Drama, Fine Art, Music, PE, and Religious Studies, as well as vocational courses such as Creative Media Production (BTEC), Health and Social Care (BTEC), Marketing and Enterprise (CNAT), and Sport Studies (CNAT).
Students must select at least one subject from Computer Science, Geography, History, French, or Spanish.
Certain subject combinations are not permitted, including:
- GCSE Media with Creative Media Production
- GCSE Fine Art with GCSE 3D Design
- GCSE Business with CNAT Marketing and Enterprise
GCSE qualifications are assessed through examinations at the end of the course and graded from 9 to 1.
Vocational qualifications involve continuous assessment with some external components and are graded from Distinction* to Pass.
For some students, alternative pathways may be recommended, such as Functional Skills in Mathematics and English or ASDAN, a personal development programme. These will be discussed directly with families if appropriate.
Although every effort will be made to accommodate all pupils’ choices, it is possible that this may not be possible so pupils will also need to select one reserve option.