During the Spring term we will provide opportunities for Year 8 students to gather all the information and guidance needed to make good decisions about their Key Stage 4 (KS4) courses.
We are ambitious for all students, expecting them to leave us with the best possible qualifications, prepared for their next steps in education and/or employment.
The Year 8 Options booklet 2025 is available here. It is important that students and families read the Year 8 Options booklet which outlines the process and foundation subject information.
Important information about Year 8 Options
Core compulsory curriculum subjects are:
- English Language and Literature
- Mathematics
- Science*
- PE (Core)
- Personal, social, health and economic education (PSHE)
- Religious Studies (RS)
*Please read our Options Booklet for more information on Science.
Foundation curriculum subjects (option subjects):
- Art
- Computer Science
- Dance
- Design and Technology
- Drama
- Food Preparation & Nutrition
- Health and Social Care
- Media Studies
- Music
- Photography
- PE
- Religious Studies
- French or Spanish
- Geography and/or History
Most students will study four foundation subjects starting in Year 9. This will include Geography and/or History and, if in group 1 or 2, their current language subject (French or Spanish). Students in group 3 or 4 are strongly encouraged to continue studying their current language (French or Spanish).
In our Options Booklet, each foundation (option) subject is described in detail with coursework requirements and advice on possible future career paths. If a course is under-subscribed, we may not be able to timetable the subject. The same applies if the course is over-subscribed. Students must make one reserve choice they would be happy to study.
The Options Process Schedule
STEP 1 Take time to read the Year 8 Options Booklet and consider which subjects to study next year.
STEP 2 Do some research online about careers and future study. Students will be learning about careers during their PSHE lessons.
STEP 3 Complete the straw poll during MFL lessons after the Options Launch Assembly on Wednesday 29 January.
STEP 4 Attend the Year 8 Options Evening on Thursday 06 February at 17:00 in the school foyer/hall.
STEP 5 Read and reflect on Year 8 Progress Review due to be published WB 03 March.
STEP 6 Meet with current subject teachers for parent consultations on Thursday 27 March.
STEP 7 Meet with a senior member of staff for options advice and guidance between Thursday 27 March and Thursday 03 April.
STEP 8 Complete the Options Application Form (to follow) and return to tutors by Tuesday 03 April.