Choosing GCSE options is an exciting point in your child’s education. We want to ensure that you and your child are well-informed and empowered to make choices that ensure the best opportunities are available in the future.
There is a lot of information on hand and expert advice available from our teachers over the coming weeks that will ensure that you understand the pathways and subjects on offer. We will support you to make decisions that will maximise your child’s achievement and engagement as they move into the next stage of their studies.
Here at The City Academy, Hackney we know it is vital that parents/carers and the school work together to establish the best route for each student to achieve their potential. You have a key role in supporting your child as they make their options choices, providing support and encouragement as well as challenging them to set aspirational goals.
Our ethos is one of high expectations and high support. We are proud of our record of academic excellence. Equally, the importance that we place on creativity and the expressive subjects mean that our standards and achievement in technology, drama, music, art and physical education are exceptional. We also model and actively promote the broader personal development of students to adulthood and see those values as integral to our students’ success.
We look forward to working with you to support your child on the next stage of their journey at The City Academy, Hackney.
Anna Sarchet Principal
Pathways explained
There are four pathways available for students to follow at The City Academy, Hackney. A pathway will be recommended based on their prior and current attainment.
The Ebacc is a combination of subjects that are considered as a useful foundation for future academic studies. This includes:
• English Language and Literature
• Maths
• Science
• Geography or History
• Spanish or French
The extended pathway is designed for students who are on track to achieve higher than grade 5 across all of their subjects. Students on the extended pathway are choosing to study the full Ebacc with two additional options.
This pathway involves beginning one Early Entry GCSE in Year 9 and sitting the final exam for this subject in year 10. Alongside their early entry GCSE, students will select a language, a humanities and one further subject to study in year 10 & 11. This reduces the number of exams students have to sit in year 11.
Students will leave school with 9 or 10 GCSEs. They will follow a broad and balanced curriculum that will prepare them for the next steps in higher education.
The academic pathway is designed for students who are on track to achieve grade 5 across all of their subjects. The academic pathway contains at least four Ebacc subjects while allowing students to consider an alternative GCSE to either humanities or MFL in year 10 and 11.
This pathway involves beginning one Early Entry GCSE in Year 9 and sitting the final exam for this subject in year 10. Alongside their early entry GCSE, students will select either a language or humanities and two further subjects to study in year 10 & 11.
Students will leave school with 9 or 10 GCSEs. They will follow a broad and balanced curriculum that will prepare them for the next steps in higher education.
Extended Pathway (starts in year 9) Academic Pathway (starts in year 9)
Pathways explained
The core pathway is designed to provide extra English and maths support. Providing extra time to focus on essential subjects will better equip students to engage with the full curriculum and achieve at least grade 5 in English and maths.
Students on the core pathway will study four Ebacc subjects, and will then make two additional options at the end of year 9 to study in Year 10/11. These include a range of vocational qualifications.
Students will leave school with 8 GCSEs (or equivalent) and the qualifications needed for further study.
The foundation pathway is designed to provide extra English and maths support, alongside two vocational options. Students will also work to achieve the King's Trust award.
The King's Trust award develops transferable skills for the world beyond school. Students will also be supported through post-16 transition. By choosing this pathway students will study subjects with more coursework based assessments, spreading out their workload and allowing more time to focus on essential subjects.
Students on this pathway will leave school with 7 GCSEs or equivalent.
Core Pathway (starts in year 10)
Foundation Pathway (starts in year 10)
Year 9 Curriculum
All students in Year 9 will study these subjects
English
Maths
Science
Spanish or French
Geography
History
DT
PE
PHSCE/RE
Tutor time 5 periods 5 periods 5 periods 3 periods 2 periods 2 periods 2 periods 2 periods 1/2 periods 15 minutes every day
Students who are on the core pathway will also study
Art & textiles
Music Drama 1 period 1 period 1 period
Students who are on the academic pathway will also study
Early option
Creative rotation Art, Music, Drama, RE, Computing 2 from Art, Music, Drama 3 periods 1 period
Options Y8
Only students recommended the academic pathway will have to make an option choice in Year 8.
Students on the academic pathway will make the following choices:
• one early entry GCSE
• one reserve choice
• a creative rotation (2 subjects from art, music, & drama)
Year 10 Curriculum
All students in year 10 and 11 will study these subjects
Students on the academic / extended pathway
• Their early entry option 3 periods
• One from each of 3 blocks (see page 8) 3 periods each
Students on the core pathway
• One choice from each of 3 blocks (see page 8) 3 periods each
Students on the foundation pathway
• King's Trust 3 periods
• One choice from block B &C 3 periods each
Options Year 9
All students must complete an option form
• One subject from each block
• One of French, Geography, History, Spanish
• One reserve
Pathway Options
Student Advice
Tinu Daramola Year 11
"Do not pick subjects just because your friends are doing it. Select subjects which you think would be beneficial for constructing a successful future."
Ethan Marsh Year 11
"Choose what you will enjoy studying for the next 2 years. Then no matter what challenges arise, you will feel no regrets."
Tyler Henry - Lewis Year 11
"Pick things you enjoy and that you are good at. This will make your GCSE revision so much easier."
Saul Kenworthy Year 11
"Pick subjects you enjoy and that don't feel like a chore to study. This will make it easier to stay committed because they are interesting and enjoyable."
Course Information
Art & Design: Fine Art
Exam board & course code:
OCR J181
Course information:
This is an exciting programme which will introduce you to many aspects of art.
You will create a portfolio of coursework that must demonstrate you have: made accurate drawings & studies of what you see, experimented with a wide range of materials, techniques & processes, and developed skills & modified work as it progresses.
You will be introduced to a wide range of artists and techniques, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, photoshop, photography and more.
The course is designed to focus on pupils strengths and coach them towards making personal and informed decisions within their work.
How will I be graded?
• Portfolio - 60% coursework
• External set task - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Sally Mountain. If you have any questions regarding the curriculumn contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level Art and Design
Higher education options:
• Art and Design degrees
Computer Science
Exam board & course code:
OCR J277
Course information:
This course explores new technologies, computer systems, programming and coding. You will gain a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works; develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills.
There is a heavy emphasis on programming with Python 3; 50% of the course is about programming theory and application.
Students who have a keen interest in technology and solving problems do well in this course.
Only students in maths sets 1a, 1b and 2a may apply for this course.
How will I be graded?
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Abu Shahin. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level Computer Science
• BTEC L3 Information Technology
Higher education options:
• B Eng Software engineering degrees
• BSc Computer Science degrees
• Degree level apprenticeships
Drama
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 1DR0
Course information:
This course is a dynamic and engaging qualification that allows you to develop performance, creativity, and analytical skills. It is ideal for those interested in theatre, acting, and storytelling but also develops your confidence, teamwork, and communication.
The course is divided into three key components: devising, performance, and written analysis. In the devising component, students create and perform their own original piece based on a stimulus, developing creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. The performance component involves acting in a scripted play, where students are assessed on their ability to interpret and bring characters to life. Lastly, the written exam evaluates their understanding of theatre, script analysis, and performance review, often including a live theatre evaluation.
Beyond the stage, drama prepares students for real-world success by fostering creativity, confidence, and communication and enhances skills valuable in many careers, including media, law, and education.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework (written and performance) - 40%
• Performance examination - 20%
• Written examination - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Christopher Thomas. If you have any questions regarding the curriculumn please contact him.
Music GCSE focuses on the three distinct disciplines of performing, composing and appraising through four interrelated areas of study (Western Classical Music/Music for ensemble/ Film Music/Popular Music).
Many lessons are spent developing as a musician in a practical way, both on instruments and through music technology and pupils taking the course must engage in developing their skills by playing an instrument or through singing.
The GCSE enables you to engage actively in the process of music study and will broaden your musical experience and interests. It will develop your knowledge, understanding and skills needed to communicate effectively as musicians.
How will I be graded?
• Performance coursework - 30%
• Composition coursework - 30%
• Listening and understanding exam - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Elizabeth Jones. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• BTEC performing arts
• A Level Music
• A Level Music Technology
Higher education options:
• Composing at University or colleges
• Music Technology degrees
Religious Studies
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 1RBO
Course information:
This course reflects the demands of a truly modern and evolving religious studies environment. The course deals with a range of moral, ethical and political dilemmas and what different religions have to say about these.
You will study the two major religions of Christianity and Islam.
You will develop analytical and critical thinking skills to enable you to present a wide range of well-informed and reasoned arguments.
How
will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Elizabeth Sully. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Religious Studies
• A Level Humanities
• A Level Sociology
Higher education options:
• Philosophy degree
• Theology degree
• History degree
Art & Design: Textiles
Exam board & course code:
OCR J174
Course information:
You will create a portfolio of coursework that must demonstrate you have: made accurate drawings & studies of what you see, experimented with a wide range of materials, techniques & processes, and developed skills & modified work as it progresses.
You will be introduced to a wide range of artists and techniques and will work in one or more area(s) of Textile Design, such as: constructed textiles, digital textiles, dyed fabrics, printed fabrics, fashion design, installed textiles, soft furnishings, stitched and/or embellished textiles techniques.
You must demonstrate the ability to work creatively with processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen area(s) of study such as: weaving, surface printing (block, screen or digital), pattern making, pattern cutting, embroidery (machine or hand), knitting, batik, appliqué and collage.
How will I be graded?
• Portfolio - 60%
• External set task - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Art and Design
• A level Textiles
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Sally Mountain. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• Fashion
• Jewellery design
Business Studies BTEC
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 603/1916/1
Course information:
In this vocational course you will study the knowledge, behaviours and skills related to researching, setting up, running and reviewing enterprises.
You will develop technical skills such as market research, planning, promotional and financial skills using realistic work scenarios.
How will I be graded?
• Internal assessment - 60%
• Examination - 40%
Grades: Pass/Merit/Distinction
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Ruth Persaud. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• Level 3 BTEC Business Studies
• A-level Business Studies
• A-level Economics
Higher education options:
• Accountancy degree
• Business Management degree
• Apprenticeships at degree level
Design & Technology
Exam board & course code: AQA 8552
Course information:
You will use a range of materials and develop design techniques such as sketching, technical drawing, information graphics and multimedia design. You will also develop an understanding of the tools, machines and equipment used to make working products. You will be required to produce an outcome, in the form of a working solution to a problem.
During this course you will also learn from wider influences including historical, cultural, social, environmental and economic factors.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 50%
• Examination - 50%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Design and Technology: 3D Design
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Kobina Christie. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Higher education options:
• Architecture degree
• Engineering degree
English Language
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8700
Course information:
This course covers the functional elements of English as well as creative writing, and speaking and listening.
The study of English Language requires regular independent study from all students. This should amount to at least 1 ½ hours each week. This will take the form of reading, writing and research.
English language is a compulsory GCSE. Any students who fail to attain at least grade 4 are required to resit in year 12. Many colleges and universities require grade 5 to access the courses.
A secure grasp of English Language will help you in any career. Attaining a higher grade can lead students into a wide range of careers including journalism, publishing and broadcasting.
How will I be Graded?
•
Grades 9 - 1
The subject leaders for this subject are Holly Roberts and Imogen Harper-Donnelly. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact them.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level English Language
• A level English Literature
Higher education options:
• English Literature degree
• Law degree
• History degree
English Literature
Exam board & course code: AQA 8702
Course information:
We study: Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’, the modern play ‘DNA’ by Dennis Kelly, as well as the ‘Worlds and Lives’ anthology, featuring a range of poets from the 19th century to modern day.
The study of English Literature requires regular independent study from all students. This should amount to at least 1 ½ hours each week.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including journalism, publishing and broadcasting.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level English Literature
Who to speak to:
The subject leaders for this subject are Holly Roberts and Imogen Harper-Donnelly. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact them.
Higher
education
options:
• English Literature degrees
• Law degrees
• History degrees
French
Exam board & course code: AQA 8652
Course information:
Students develop their ability and ambition to communicate independently in speech and writing with speakers of the language and about subjects, which are meaningful and interesting. French also builds students’ confidence and broadens their horizons, enabling them to step beyond familiar cultural boundaries, develop new ways of seeing the world, and better understand relationships between the foreign language and the English language.
Students will become familiar with aspects of the contexts and cultures of the countries and communities where the language is spoken. Assessment is set in the context of these three themes.
• Theme 1: People and lifestyle
• Theme 2: Popular culture
• Theme 3: Communication and the world around us.
How will I be Graded?
• Examination (reading, writing, listening and speaking) - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level French
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Katherine Moore. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• Modern Foreign Language degree
Geography
Exam board & course code: AQA 8035
Course information:
In this course you will study:
• Living with the Physical Environment which includes: Rivers and Coasts, The Living World (including Hot Deserts and Malaysian Tropical Rainforest), Natural Hazards (including a case study on earthquakes in Chile and Nepal).
• Challenges in the Human Environment which includes: Urban issues such as issues in Rio de Janiero, Changing Economic World (including comparison of Nigeria and the UK economy), Resources (including Water Resource Management)
• Issues Evaluation and Fieldwork which involves two field trips to the coast at Walton on the Naze and to Westfield, Stratford to conduct questionnaires and surveys.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Geography
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Sally Boultbee. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• Geography degree
• Geology degree
• Environmental Sciences degree
EBacc
History
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 1H10
Course information:
GCSE History allows you to study a wide range of time periods whilst developing your ability to analyse change and continuity, causation, historical interpretations and primary sources.
You will cover a range of topics in the 20th century, including the American Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War. Students will also look in depth at Elizabethan England and how Crime and Punishment have changed over 1,000 years in Britain.
The breadth of study covered in history leads to many different employment opportunities in the charitable sector, journalism & a range of jobs within the public sector.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level History
• A-level Sociology
• A-level Government & Politics
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Carolyn Baker. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• History degree
• Law degree
• Philosophy, Politics and Economics degree
Hospitality & Catering
Exam board & course code: EDUQAS WJEC 5409QA
Course information:
In this course, you will develop key skills in food preparation, cooking techniques, and nutrition. You will learn about food safety and hygiene, ensuring meals meet industry standards. The course covers menu planning, meal presentation, and the science behind food, helping you understand how ingredients interact.
You will also explore the hospitality and catering industry, including customer service, business operations, and career opportunities. Through practical tasks, you will enhance teamwork, organisation, and time management skills while gaining hands-on experience in a professional kitchen setting. The course introduces industry roles, from chefs to restaurant managers, providing insight into different career paths. It is ideal for students who enjoy working in a fast-paced environment and want to gain transferable skills. By the end of your studies, you will have developed both practical abilities and theoretical knowledge, preparing you for further education or employment in the hospitality and catering sector.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 60%
• Written Examination - 40%
Grades: Pass/Merit/Distinction
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Shamsun Mazid. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Food and Nutrition
• Level 3 Hospitality & Catering
Higher education options:
• Food and Nutrition Management degrees
• Clinical Dietetics degree
Mathematics
Exam board & course code:
Edexcel 1MA1
Course information:
Mathematics is a core subject at GCSE and plays an integral role in providing key skills needed in many different careers. It combines a logical approach with intellectual rigour that contribute to an ability to solve a wide variety of problems. The subject is an essential prerequisite to many career paths and university courses.
Topics covered include number: ratios, algebra, geometry, measurement, statistics and probability.
Student who fail to attain at least a grade 4 will need to resit. A grade 5 is requirement for many colleges and universities.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Maths & Further Maths
• A Level Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• A Level Economics
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is In-Yong Hwang. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Higher education options:
• Maths degree
• Engineering degree
• Computer Science degree
• Economics degree
PE
Exam board & course code: AQA 8582
Course information:
There are strong links with science and students who enjoy science, especially biology, find PE very interesting. There are a wide range of topics covered which are assessed through two 75 minute exams. These include: applied anatomy and physiology, movement analysis, physical training, sports psychology, sociocultural influences, health, fitness and wellbeing.
The practical element is assessed by participation in three sports (one team sport, one individual sport and a third of your choice). This course would suit those who are competing in sport regularly, either in or out of school as well as those students who enjoy science.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 50%
• Written Examination - 50%
Grades: 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Kynan Ball. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level PE
• BTEC National Diploma sports
Higher education options:
• Exercise Science degrees
Science (Biology, Chemistry & Physics)
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8464, 8461, 8462, 8463
Course information:
The sciences develop your knowledge and understanding of the living, material and physical worlds. Each of the three sciences (biology, chemistry and physics) are taught separately. Biology gives students the chance to gain a good understanding of human biology, organisms, evolution and the environment.
Chemistry enables students to explore the nature of substances and how they react together; how chemistry is used in industry and how our use of raw materials in fuels and manufacturing can affect the environment.
Physics provides the chance to gain a good understanding of the use and transfer of energy, waves, radiation, space and the application of physics.
Practical skills are developed throughout the course and assessed as part of the end of course exams.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades: 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Ruth Adams. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level Biology
• A-level Chemistry
• A-level Physics
Higher education options:
• Medicine degrees
• Engineering degrees
• Pharmaceuticals degrees
Sociology
Exam board & course code: AQA 8192
Course information:
In this course you will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding about our social world, and will question taken for granted assumptions about social groups and processes. You will look at how sociologists study and understand society’s structures, processes and issues.
Topics studied include families, education, crime, social hierarchies and research methods. Each of these is explored in the context of what they mean to those in different social classes, of different ethnicities and cultures, and different genders.
You will apply your knowledge of sociological ideas and theories to real world scenarios and current events, giving you a unique understanding of the world around us.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Elizabeth Sully. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Sociology
• A level History
• A level Religious Studies
Higher education options:
• Sociology degrees
• Law degree
• Psychology degrees
Spanish
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8692
Course information:
You will develop your ability and ambition to communicate independently in speech and writing with speakers of the language and about subjects, which are meaningful and interesting.
You will develop your confidence and broadens your horizons, enabling you to step beyond familiar cultural boundaries, develop new ways of seeing the world, and better understand relationships between the foreign language and the English language.
Students will become familiar with aspects of the contexts and cultures of the countries and communities where the language is spoken. Assessment is set in the context of these three themes.
The subject leader for this subject is Mark Johnson. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Spanish
Higher education options:
• Modern Foreign Language degree
• Combined degree courses which include a language
Sports Studies
Exam board & course code:
OCR Cambridge National J839
Course information:
This course suits those interested in sport and PE who prefer assignments rather than exams. There are three units of study:
● Contemporary issues in sport (written exam) –participation, values, implications of major events, governing bodies and technology in sport.
● Developing sporting skills (coursework) – includes performance, improving sport activities, organising and planning sports activities, leading and reviewing a planned sports activity.
● Optional unit - Sports and media or Increasing awareness of outdoor and adventurous activities (coursework).
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 60%
• Examination - 40%
Grades: Pass/ Merit/ Distinction
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Kynan Ball. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• Level 3 courses in Sports Studies
Higher education options:
• Apprenticeships in Sports Studies
• University courses in Sports Studies
Online Options Form
Opens Wednesday 23rd April | Closes Friday 2nd May at 16:30
All year 9, and year 8 students on the academic pathway, will receive a login and a link to the form the day before the form opens.
• Your child should follow the emailed link, log in and make their choices.
• Parents will then be emailed and asked to confirm they are happy with the options selected.
The forms will also be available on our website: https://www.thecityacademyhackney.org/gcse-options/49.html
Students will be informed of their final options in Summer 2.
• Further step by step guides are available on the website
• For any queries you can email gcse.options@thecityacademy.org
