An Introduction to GCSEs

Dear Students,

You are about to embark on an exciting stage in your school journey The decisions that you are about to make regarding the next stage of your education are very important ones, and you must remember that you are surrounded by people who are well placed to support and advise you in your choices. You have your parents, your Form Tutor, Miss Crossland (Head of Year 9), Mrs Francisco (Director of Futures) and Mrs Deadman or Mrs Cork (Deputy Heads) The decisions are ultimately yours, but do take advantage of the wisdom that surrounds you both at home and at school.

As a first step, we hope that this booklet will give you an overview of what is available to you. You will study between eight and ten GCSEs Everyone has to study a common core of six GCSE subjects: English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, a Modern Foreign Language, and Combined Science (which makes up two GCSEs). As an alternative to Combined Science you may choose to do separate sciences which would give you three science GCSEs. In addition, three full GCSE option subjects are chosen. We strongly encourage you to choose a Humanities subject (Geography, History or Religious Studies) to give balance and substance to your portfolio You will, of course, continue PSHCEE and PE lessons in addition to academic qualifications; there is so much more to your education than examined subjects.

We would like you to take some time to study the contents of this booklet and to discuss it with your parents On Tuesday 24th January, Ms Kelly and Ms Crossland will talk you through the decision-making process; you will hear some fascinating talks from various people from a wide range of careers and then you will have the chance to speak to Heads of Department about what is involved in studying particular subjects at GCSE. You may find it quite different from what you expect!

Year 9 Parents’ evening will also then take place on the following day. This will be an opportunity for you and your parents to discuss your progress in all subjects. Armed with information from all these avenues, you will then hopefully have a much clearer picture of the path you wish to follow.

Student Option Interviews will take place throughout January where you will have the chance to discuss your thoughts on an individual basis with your Form Tutor.

Between then and the options deadline of Wednesday 8th February 2023 you and your parents are welcome to contact the school at any time for further advice. We realise that this is a very important time for you and we will all do everything we can to help

Good luck!

Mrs Patricia Adams Headmistress