1. Welcome to
Fairfield High School
GCSE Option Choices

2. Why are we choosing Options?
At Key Stage 4 (Year 10 and 11) students continue to study a core curriculum:
Maths
Science PE
English RE
Citizenship
PSHE (ilearn).
They also have the chance to choose three optional subjects.

3. Is there any restriction on what students can choose?
We advise students to keep their curriculum broad, to ensure they have maximum choice of courses Post 16.
However, we understand that some students will have specific careers in mind already and may need to choose a certain range of options. If this applies to you, you need to discuss with subject teachers and Ms Thomas.

4. What about the EBACC?
This is a measure of school performance. The government wants to encourage all students to study a foreign language, History or Geography to GCSE level.
We advise you to choose at least one of these, to keep your Post 16 options open.

5. Options Timeline

6. Choosing optional subjects
Students can choose three subjects from a wide range.
There are some restrictions: you can only choose one Art subject
You must choose one Ebacc subject (*starred on the form)
You may only choose two vocational (v) subjects
You must pick a first and second choice in each box.
Please tick the boxes at the bottom of the form if you want to be considered for additional Maths or Triple Science.

7. Options Form

8. The initial and final options forms
This first form is to gauge interest in subjects.
We will use the information you give us to construct the final form.
The final form will look different. Some subjects will be missing or be in different places.

9. How do we decide whether you get your choices?
Courses will run if they attract at least 15 students.
We will try to give everyone their first choices.
We may not be able to give everyone all three of their first choices.
There is also a maximum class size (different for practical and classroom based courses).
We will monitor whether your choices are suitable and will advise you if we feel your choices are not in your best interest.
We will check your choices maintain a broad and balanced curriculum for you.

10. What is RPA?
Students must continue to participate in learning until at least their 18th birthday.
RPA is not about raising the school leaving age.
There are a range of options:
Full-time education, such as school or college;
An Apprenticeship; or
Part-time education or training if you are employed, self-employed or volunteering for 20 hours or more a week.

11. Some questions to ask teachers
What is on the syllabus?
How will we study?
How will I be tested?
What is the final qualification ?
What can I do next with this qualification?

12. What subjects should I pick?
Good reasons for choosing a course:
You are good at the subject
You think you will enjoy the course
It goes well with your other choices
You are interested in the knowledge and skills it develops
It will give you plenty of choice in the future
You think that you might want to continue studying it after Year 11

13. Why shouldn’t I pick a subject?
Bad reasons for choosing a course:
Your friends are doing it – don’t pick something just to be part of the crowd
People say it is easy
You think it is a good course for a boy or for a girl
Someone else thinks that it is a good idea
You like the teacher you have now
You did not have time to research your options properly

14. Who can help? Family and Friends Subject Teachers Careers Advice
On-going support in KS4 including 1:1 Careers advice and Work Experience
Tutors

15. Contact Details Ms Janice Callow, Vice Principal:
Dr Jenn Ross, Y9 Achievement Coordinator:

16. Any questions?