Pupils have the opportunity of choosing their options during the course of Year 8. This is with the aim of ensuring that pupils start Year 9 with purpose, challenge and enjoyment. 

As you may be aware, Year 8 pupils are approaching the time when they will have some choice over which subjects they will take next year leading to GCSE examinations in 2027. This is not an unlimited choice as we ask that the majority of pupils follow a broad and balanced curriculum and therefore expect them to continue their studies in the GCSEs of Mathematics, English Language and Literature, Science, a Humanities subject and a Modern Foreign Language.

Between now and May 2024, when they will be asked to make their choices, Year 8 pupils will have a number of opportunities to reflect on their preferences during the tutor time programme as well as in PDL lessons and careers focus days. They will also be given ‘taster’ sessions of new GCSE subjects they will not have experienced before, such as Photography or Sociology so that they can make informed choices.

Mr Wharton, Deputy Headteacher