Curriculum Choices 2026

Key Dates for the Options Process

• Thursday 5 February – Assessment report sent home to parents
• Thursday 5 February – Year 9 Options Evening at school (5pm–7.30pm)
• Friday 6 February – Options online form opens for choices to be made
• Tuesday 3 March – Deadline for submitting all option choices online
• Monday 9 March – Academic Review Day (assessment data)
• Thursday 30 April – Virtual Parents’ Evening (3.30pm–7.30pm)

What to expect at the Options Evening

A short presentation during the evening will outline the KS4 curriculum and explain the options process in full. The first presentation is at 5.15pm and will be repeated at 6pm in the Main Hall.

Subject teachers and Heads of Department will be available to discuss courses and answer individual questions.

The Inclusion/SEND team and the Year 9 team will also be on hand to provide guidance and support.

There are no timed appointments; you and your child can move between subjects at your own pace.  Rooming information will be provided on arrival.

Overview

• Core GCSEs (studied by all students): English Language & English Literature (2 GCSEs), Mathematics, and Combined Science (2 GCSEs)
• Option Subjects: Students select additional subjects, including at least History and/or Geography
• Non-Examined Curriculum: Core PE and Personal Development (via tutor time) continue for all
• Languages: It is not compulsory to study a language. If a student has not studied French or Spanish in Year 9, they cannot begin a new language in Year 10

• Religious Education GCSE: Available as an option and examined in Year 11
• Separate Sciences: In addition to Combined Science, students may opt for Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics as three GCSEs). This course is taught at higher tier and is suited to students with strong attainment and interest in Science
• Literacy pathway: For students currently receiving enhanced literacy support, we will review progress and advise on the most appropriate pathway. Families of these students will receive further information separately

How to Submit Options 

• Once the online options form opens on Friday 6 February, please complete it with your child by the deadline – Friday 6 March
• Guidance on accessing and completing the form will be provided on the school website and signposted at the Options Evening

Getting Support 

Start with the Options Booklet for course outlines, entry information, and typical learning/assessment approaches.

Use your child’s assessment report and the Academic Review Day (Monday 2 March) discussion, to sense check choices.

If you have questions at any point, please contact the Year 9 Team or your child’s tutor.