Options
We are beginning the 2024 options process, through which all Year 9 students will decide the curriculum that they wish to study through until the end of Year 11. This booklet will guide you through it and we are here to support you in the decisions that you make.
There are some myths about the choices made at Year 9 and some potential misconceptions too. We would strongly encourage students and parents to actively discuss these decisions, but we would also strongly counsel people to select courses that they are genuinely excited about studying.
Everyone will study English (Language and Literature, 2 GCSEs), Mathematics, Combined Science (2 GCSEs unless a student opts for Triple Science), Personal Development and Citizenship (non-examination) and Core PE (non-examination).
You then have an open choice of four subjects, however, we also strongly recommend that you choose History, Geography or Religious Studies. We would like you to think carefully about these choices. Whilst we will always do our utmost to ensure that any option subject we offer is able to run, in unforeseen circumstances we reserve the right to withdraw a subject.
Whilst we can’t guarantee you all your first choices, we will aim to get you onto your selected courses and will discuss on an individual basis with any student who does not get their choices. We will prioritise students into subjects that are limited on numbers based on what their reserve choice is and, on their Attitude to Learning scores across all their subjects.
Where to Get Help
- Discuss your choices fully with your parents/carers.
- Ask advice from subject teachers or your tutor. Seek information on the level, content, teaching methods and assessment of the course.
What support is available for my child?
A variety of support structures are available to your child during their GCSE courses. This may include coaching, mentoring, catch-up sessions, additional holiday revision classes as well as the usual pastoral support which is on offer to all students.
Key Dates:
Thursday 29th February 2024 Options Evening 6.00 pm – 8.00 pm
(Headteacher’s talk – 6.00 pm and 6.45 pm)
Monday 4th March 2024 Options online opens
Friday 15th March 2024 Options online completed
End of June 2024 Students notified of options
July 2024 Students attend course taster sessions
September 2024 Key Stage 4 timetable commences