Year 8 GCSE Choices Evening 2018

Why There have been changes to the GCSE structure in recent years with an increase in the content in some courses. We feel that increasing the amount of time students are able to study the subjects will give them a better chance of success. All GCSE subjects Grade 9 – 1 not A*- G

Compulsory Subjects Science Physical Education There are some subjects which everyone must study because they are important for work and adult life. English Maths Science Physical Education

Choices A Choose 1 from: French, Geography or History B Choose 1 from: Art and Design, Performing Arts, Creative Media, Health & Social Care or French. C Choose 1 from: Art and Design, Business Studies, Citizenship, Computer Science, Creative Media, Geography, Health & Social Care, History, Media, Music, Performing Arts, Product Design, Religious Studies or Sociology.

The Choices Process Read the book with them. Encourage them to talk to staff. What are students good at and like the sound of studying? Have you any career ideas/questions - talk to Mrs Butler (tonight in the Sports Hall or in school on Saturday 24th March 10am-1pm in the Learning Centre)

This is just the first step This is just the first step. Students may change their mind but they are starting to think about what they would like to do. Students need to start thinking about how they would rank these subjects.

The Online Process 12th March – 20th April

Registering your account Click the link in your email from noreply@sims.co.uk

Access from School

Access from home www.sims-options.co.uk

Sign in using your school email address and password

Choices We try to give students the choices they want. Unfortunately it isn’t always possible. Students need to rank their choices -order of preference 1st to 3rd Also include a Reserve Choice for Block B and C- they have to pick one second choice just in case. Comment - Only if you feel you need to. You can write down any points you feel are important in the box at the bottom of the screen.

Students can keep changing their choices as much as they like until Friday 20th April

This Evening Choices Fayre – Sports Hall 5 -6:30pm Your opportunity to speak more informally with staff. The subjects will have stalls which will allow you to move freely between subject areas. Some of the subjects are subjects students are already studying. Information about the courses have also been discussed in lesson or on the Taster Day (12th March).

Any queries? If you have any queries about the process Senior Staff will be available in the Sports Hall For specific dates please refer to the booklet your child was given on 12th March