Year 9 Options for September 2024



Please find here a link to the electronic options form. Please be reminded that students will be prompted for their preferred (1st) choice and a back-up (2nd) choice, from option blocks 2 and 3.

The deadline for submission is Wednesday 13th March.


Frequently Asked Questions

Should I choose triple Science or not?

There are some specific careers and university courses which require separate GCSEs in Science (Triple Science), these include top medical and veterinary courses. This is the only GCSE option which may be required to make future careers possible.  There are no academic requirements to take Triple Science however students need to be aware that they will need to study Science to a greater depth than their peers in the other GCSE Science course.

To take GCSE Music do I have to learn (or already learn) an instrument?

No – there will be an opportunity to begin learning an instrument from the start of the course. There is, however, an option for a music technology pathway too.

Is Music GCSE all about classical music?

No – all genres of music are covered as part of the course. Links between musical influences are analysed, it is amazing to discover how our favourite modern music is influenced by different genres.

Art and Design GCSE – why can’t I choose both Fine Art and Textiles.

These are both options within the Art and Design GCSE. The exam board does not permit this combination.

Why should I take a new subject – like GCSE Business?

New subjects offer the opportunity to gain new knowledge and learn new skills, which will broaden horizons and better prepare students for the future world of work.

GCSE PE – how much of the course is actually doing sport (practical)?

The weighting of the split between the examination and non-examination components of the course is 60% examination, 40% non-examination. The non-examination components include the practical sports assessments and writing a personal exercise programme.

Why do I have to take some subjects?

Research tells us that having a broad range of subjects leads to greater success later in life. We strive to offer a broad and balanced curriculum, which allow education to last for life and continue to contribute to students’ successes. In order to protect broad and balanced, some subject are made compulsory.

If I study Food Technology and Nutrition, do I have to handle meat?

There is no requirement to handle meat as part of the learning and practical activities. You may, however, be learning about meat processing and preparation and be in a kitchen where there is meat.

What’s the difference between English Literature and English Language?

English Literature is the study of the texts, so Macbeth, An Inspector Calls, A Christmas Carol and Poetry.  They will learn how to appreciate the author’s crafting of work and message they were sending to society.

English Language is where they have to, again, show an appreciation of an author’s craft but with unseen extracts and then transfer those skills into a piece of imaginative writing in paper 1  and transactional for paper 2.

What does a good pass in English mean?

A grade 4 in either English Language or Literature means they will not have to resit English after year 11. Some education and employment institutions require a ‘Standard’ pass (grade 4) in English Language.

Are there any GCSE subjects that are all coursework based?

None of the GCSE courses are 100% coursework based. Most will have a non-examined assessment (coursework element) but all will involve an examination.

Will my GCSE choices limit my A Level options?

No – GCSE options don’t limit A Level choice – for example in CEC sixth form there are no A Level subjects where we insist on a certain GCSE, more important are the grades you achieve at GCSE.


If you have any questions regarding the process please do not hesitate to contact the academy by emailing  [email protected].