GCSE 

GCSEs, which begin in year 10, comprise a core offer which leads to 6GCSEs:

  • English language
  • English literature
  • Mathematics
  • Combined Science (2x GCSEs which cover Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
  • Religious studies

In addition, students also study a further four GCSE courses which they choose.  These courses should ensure that students continue with a broad and balanced curriculum that develops a range of skills and knowledge and prepares them for a range of futures, both as people and as workers.  A programme is followed in school during the Spring term of year 9 which supports them in making these choices; activities include:

  • Individual discussions between parents/carers, students and a member of staff at a calendared event
  • An information evening where information from subject specialists is shared

Information regarding individual subjects, including guidance for making choices can be found here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLYc2AWJ4Hj8_oCbnQesjcxDxuwAX9foVb

The courses currently on offer to students are shown in the curriculum outlines on Year Group pages, and on the Subjects and Boards page. The specific courses may be different in any given year.

GCSE Options 2025

The process for year 9 students to choose their GCSE options takes place in the spring term, and begins with an assembly to students, includes online 1:1 interviews between Parents / Carers / students and teachers about the process and how to choose their options, and a GCSE  options evening when teachers and current students are available to discuss subject courses.

Dates for 2025 are:

Y9 Options event

Wed 22nd JAN - IMH Y9 Options assembly

Thu 13th FEB - 1:1 options interview (online – Schoolcloud) 4:30pm start

HALF TERM

Thu 27th FEB - GCSE Options evening (6pm – 8pm)

Fri 28th FEB - online Option form shared with students

Fri 14th MAR - Application deadline

 

All students will study the core curriculum of Mathematics, English Literature and English Language, Games, Combined Science, PCSHE and RE.  In addition, they will study 4x other option subjects made up of:

  • One from French or German or Geography or History or Triple Science or Computer Science
  • 3 from the all the above plus: Fine Art, Textiles, Design & Technology, Food and Nutrition, PE, Drama, Music, Business Studies, Sociology.

Note that GCSEs are not preparation for a specific ‘job’ or ‘career’, they are intended as a basis and foundation for many jobs and careers, and all students must chose a ‘broad and balanced curriculum’ that provides them the knowledge, skills and aptitudes to follow many careers and take advantage of any opportunities that arise in the future.

Students will be asked to choose 5x GCSE options from which they will be allocated 4.  These are chosen to enable the largest number of students to study 4 of their 5 chosen subjects. If it proves impossible to allocate a student 4 of their 5 choices, we will speak with parents / carers and students before any decision is made.

Application form – available to students from Friday 28th February 2025

Information about the GCSE subjects students have been allocated will be shared during the summer term.  Once these are allocated, it is very unlikely that students will be able to change their choices, so care must be taken.  Each year a number students study their 5th choice: equal care must be given to the fifth as the first.