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Choosing subjects is an exciting milestone - it’s the first opportunity to tailor a pupil's education to their unique strengths, interests, and future ambitions.
This page is designed to guide you through the learner journey and decision-making process. Here, you will find course guides, pathway information, and key deadlines.
S1
S1
In S1, your child will study a variety of subjects as part of the BGE curriculum. This will provide them with opportunities to learn a number of new subjects in different settings, as well as developing important new skills. They will also meet with their Guidance Teacher in September or October for a settling-in interview.
S3 OPTIONS FORM Exemplar.pdfS2
S2
In S2, your child will continue to study a wide variety of subjects as part of their BGE. This year, they will also explore exciting new additions to their timetable, such as Drama and Enterprise.
As our S2 pupils prepare to transition into S3, they will meet with their Guidance Teacher in February or March to select the subjects they wish to study for their National Qualifications. Pupils will study nine subjects in preparation for National Qualifications, alongside other core subjects.
The Goal: Maintain a well-rounded education whilst beginning to specialise for moving into S3.
What to consider: Subjects they enjoy the most. Where their natural strenghths lie.
Next Steps: Review the S3 Course Choice Booklet.
S3
S3
In S3, pupils will maintain a broad and balanced curriculum whilst beginning to focus on the subjects they engage with the most. This year is all about deepening their knowledge, developing core skills, and building a strong foundation for future exam success.
To support this next step, your child will meet with their Guidance Teacher in November or December to narrow down their options. Together, they will select seven subjects - including compulsory English and Maths - that they will take forward and present for their National Qualifications in S4.
Guidance Tip: Think about which subjects you enjoy and are achieving well in. Look closely at the entry requirements for courses at university, college or work. The choices you make now set the stage for your Higher Qualifications.
S4 Options Form Exemplar.pdfS4 to S5 COURSE PLANNING FORM Exemplar.pdfS4
S4
Moving into S4 marks your child's official entry into the Senior Phase. This is a critical year where all the hard work leads to formal qualifications!
In January your child's Guidance Teacher will meet with you to discuss option choices for S5. As pupils transition further into the Senior Phase, they will narrow their timetables down to five subjects.
S5
S5
In S5 pupils will dedicate more time and focus to each course, whether they are pursuing Highers, National 5s, or other alternitive qualifications offered at this stage. S5 is highly personalised, focusing on securing the qualifications needed for immediate post-school goals, whether that means staying on for S6, or preparing for higher education and employment.
Greater Depth: Spend more hours per week diving deep into your chosen fields.
Flexible Pathways: Mix and match academic Highers with vocational qualifications to suit your personal learning style.
GUIDE TO NPAs and LEVEL 5 AND 6 SENIOR PHASE COURSES 2026-2027.pdfvocational-prospectus-2025-26_master-ver6.pdfS6
S6
In S6, pupils have the flexibility to design a bespoke timetable that acts as a bridge between school and the wider world. Alongside traditional Highers and Advanced Highers, we offer a wide variety of progressive opportunities to build a CV, develop independence, and gain vital life skills.
In S6, a timetable can include:
National Progression Awards (NPAs): Highly valued, practical qualifications in modern sectors like digital media, business, cybersecurity, or sports.
Open University Courses (YASS): Experience university-level learning first-hand through modules broad enough to challenge thinking and make personal statements stand out.
Work Experience Placements: Spend dedicated time in a real-world workplace to test out career paths and build industry connections.
Senior Phase Partnership Programmes: Take advantage of our East Dunbartonshire partnerships with local colleges to access vocational training courses alongside school studies.
School Leadership & Service: Give back to the school community through volunteering, paired reading, or stepping up as a prefect or captain.
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