Options

KS4 GCSE Options 

Important Dates: 

Options Assembly to students: Wednesday 2nd March 
Options Presentation via email & website: Wednesday 2nd March 
Deadline to submit options: Thursday 17th March 

Options Overview: 

Core subjects are compulsory. Full details of each subject are contained in the brochure (link below), with clear guidance about how to choose optional subjects. 

What is the EBacc? 

The EBacc is a key performance indicator which recognises students’ achievements in five academic subjects: 

• English Language and/or Literature 
• Mathematics 
• Science (Including Computer Science) 
• French or German (or another language) 
• History or Geography 

  These are subjects most likely to be required or preferred for entry to degree courses and ones that will keep the most doors open. 

  When considering what choices to make in the optional part of the curriculum, students should think about the following questions: 

• What am I good at? 
• What do I enjoy? 
• What are my aspirations and expectations? 
• Am I making choices for the right reasons? 
• Have I gathered all of the advice and guidance before making decisions? 

Choosing the right and most appropriate subjects is essential if students are to achieve their full potential however choices made at this point will not define a student’s future career path. 

It is important to us that the choices that you make are informed. Please take time to read this booklet, visit the individual subject areas of interest and speak to the teachers within those areas. 

Vocational Qualifications 

Vocational courses are equivalent to GCSE courses and should not be viewed as easier or less important options. Vocational courses enable students to acquire skills which are related to a specific trade, occupation or vocation. 

The Curriculum (fortnightly) 

• 9 periods of English and Combined or Triple Science 
• 8 periods of Maths. 
• 4 periods of Religious Studies. 
• 2 periods of PE. 
• 6 periods of each option subject. 
• PSHCE (delivered in form time; 30 minutes per week) 

Curriculum Overview: 

 

*Target grade 6 in Maths required

*Subjects which are similar in content and cannot be taken together: 
Art & Design or Graphics 
Sport or PE 
Business Studies or Business & Enterprise
**Level 1 courses are delivered at Haybrook College and have a limited number of places available. Students opting for these courses will be reviewed for suitability. 

Careers Advice 

If you would like to request a 20 minute meeting with an independent careers advisor, please fill in this form. 

An appointment date and time will be emailed to you once we confirm this with our career's advisor. Your appointment will take place before the deadline closes on Thursday 17th March. 

 

Helpful Links & Documents: 

Video presentation – Mr De Angelis 

Guide on how to submit options - Mr Bullock

Options Brochure 

FAQ’s 

After you have created your account using the How to select your options video guide above, you may then log in to the Options Online using the link provided here: 

http://www.sims-options.co.uk/

Subject Presentations