What Can I Choose?
a. Compulsory Subjects
All students will work for GCSEs in English Language, English Literature, Maths, Sciences (usually
Combined Science). Students will also continue with the language they started to study in Year 9. In
addition:
- Students who are likely to achieve top grades in Sciences may be able to take Triple Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) in place of Combined Science. Students who wish to be considered for Triple Science should indicate this on their option form.
- Students who are in Set 0a Maths when they reach Year 11 will also take a GCSE in Statistics as a core part of their Maths course.
- All students will also study practical PE, PHSE and Ethical and Religious Studies. These subjects are not examined.
b. EBacc Subjects
All students must select at least one (but up to three) of their options from the list of EBacc subjects.
These include:
- Geography
- History
- A second modern foreign language
- Latin (restrictions apply)
c. Optional Subjects
Students may choose a maximum of two options from the list below. Restrictions apply to some
options:
GCSE Subjects
- Business
- Computer Science
- Dance
- Design and Technology: Food and Nutrition
- Design and Technology: Product Design
- Drama
- Film Studies
- Fine Art
- Graphic Communication
- Music
- Media Studies
- Physical Education
- Photography
- Psychology
- Religious Studies
- Sociology
- Statistics (restrictions apply)
- Textiles (Art)
GCSE Equivalent Subjects
- Health and Social Care
- Music Performance
- Sports Studies
- Creative iMedia
Advanced Subjects
- Advanced Maths (restrictions apply)
d. Reserve Choice
All students must make two reserve choices on the option form. These can be from any of the
subjects offered. The reserves should be listed in order of preference.
Whilst we do our best to ensure you get the choices you have made, there are times when this proves
impossible. There are a number of reasons for this. For example, some courses may not run if there is
insufficient demand. Some may clash on the timetable. We will always consult you if this happens.
However, it is important that you put as much thought into your reserve choice as into your other
options.
e. Non Language Pathway
Students who are not studying a language in Year 9 will choose a vocational option from the non language
pathway. Students should choose one of the following, and also a reserve choice
- Creative iMedia
- Health and Social Care
- Music Performance
- Sports Studies
- Personal Development and Employability Skills
f. Restrictions
The following restrictions apply to option choices. You should read these carefully.
- Three separate Sciences will only be allowed for the most able scientists. Students choosing this will have to complete the three qualifications in the time everyone else does the two sciences and will need to pick up concepts quickly and do additional work on their own. We will therefore look for students to have an ATL of 1.8 or better.
- No more than TWO of French, Spanish and Latin may be taken
- Only one of Fine Art, Textiles (Art), Photography or Graphic Communication
- No more than one DT subject (Product Design or Food and Nutrition)
- Only one of Media Studies or Film Studies
- Only one of Computer Science or Creative iMedia
- Only one of Music or Music Performance
- Only one of PE or Sports Studies
- Advanced Maths is limited to students in set Newton for Maths and is subject to an interview with the student and their parent/carer.
