Option Subjects

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Pupils are required to take 4 option subjects in addition to the compulsory subjects.

Please note: depending on demand, one or more of these subjects may not run in 2026/27. It also may not be possible for pupils to study every possible combination of subjects due to timetabling restrictions.

GCSE Art & Design

GCSE Business

GCSE Computer Science

GCSE Digital Technology

GCSE Drama

GCSE Design & Technology (Product Design)

GCSE Physical Education

GCSE Religious Studies

GCSE Art & Design

Art and Design GCSE is an exciting course which covers a broad range of two and three dimensional studies which may include drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, digital art, textiles, digital photography, illustration, graphic design and illustration. The creative industries are the fastest growing part of the UK economy generating more than £100bn a year. There are a wide range of possible careers within this subject area such as; special effects, television, film, photography, advertising, marketing, communication, beauty, fashion, textiles, CAD, animation, illustration and architecture to name just a few.

Throughout the course there are opportunities for you to broaden your knowledge by participating in visits to galleries and museums. We also organise visiting artists to deliver bespoke workshops. There is also the opportunity to have your work selected for the Creative Exhibition that showcases the work of pupils from South Wales schools at Cardiff School of Art & Design (Cardiff Met).

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 NEA Portfolio 60%

Unit 2 Practical Exam - 10 hours 40%

GCSE Business

In GCSE Business students are introduced to the business world, empowering them to develop as enterprising individuals. They will have the opportunity to develop a wide range of skills, enabling them to use business information critically, to develop arguments, to make justified decisions and to prepare them for further study and career pathways. Taking this subject can lead onto the A-level course in either Business or Economics which will be very beneficial for either careers or higher education courses in the following areas: Business, Banking, Management, Human Resource Management, Accountancy, Marketing, Economics and Law to name a few.

Business is a subject for students to find out what it takes to be a successful Entrepreneur. We want the students to learn about the world of work and have an understanding of what will be expected of them when they enter employment. Business is a fun, relevant and challenging subject. We encourage our students to share opinions and ideas and communicate them in the most effective way. If you are interested in going into the world of business then this is the subject for you!

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Introduction to the Business World Exam 1hr15 30%

Unit 2 Key Business Considerations NEA 15%

Unit 3 Business Strategies for Success Exam 1hr15 30%

Unit 4 Business Creations NEA 25%

GCSE Computer Science

Computer Science is a powerful and creative subject that teaches you how technology works and how to build it yourself.

The GCSE course combines practical programming with the theory behind modern technology. You will explore how computers process data, store information, communicate securely across networks and solve real-world problems through digital innovation. You will learn to code in Python, learn about algorithms, binary, cybersecurity, and the ethical impact of technology on society. You will build essential skills in logical thinking and digital problem-solving, and discover how scientists are improving lives and shaping the future.

Computer Science is ideal for pupils who enjoy puzzles, logic, design, and thinking differently. It is an excellent choice for anyone who wants to create, lead and innovate in the digital world. Computer Science is a challenging but rewarding GCSE. The course requires lots of resilience and determination as programming can be like learning a whole new language, and learners are often expected to complete programming tasks outside of lessons.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Understanding Computer Science Exam 1hr30 50%

Unit 2 Computing Programming Exam 2hrs 50%

GCSE Digital Technology

The Digital Technology GCSE qualification allows learners to build on the digital skills, knowledge and understanding that is used both in their school and everyday lives. The qualification is designed for learners who wish to begin their journey towards a career that utilises digital technologies or to progress onto advanced level programmes of learning involving digital technologies.

This qualification will allow learners to develop their understanding of the range of digital technology systems at use in our connected and globalised society. It will also allow learners to explore the ever-evolving nature of digital technology systems and how these systems can be used productively, creatively and safely.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 The Digital World Exam 1hr30 40%

Unit 2 Digital Practices NEA 40%

Unit 3 Communication in the Digital World NEA 20%

GCSE Drama

Drama GCSE is an exciting subject that engages and encourages students to become confident performers with the skills they need for a bright and successful future. Students learn to collaborate with others, think analytically and evaluate effectively.

Within the course students explore drama created and performed by other people and develop their own talents. They gain understanding throughout the course of a range of techniques, forms, styles, genres, contexts and means of presenting drama to an audience, developing knowledge, understanding and appreciation of how meaning is communicated.

Whatever the future holds, students of GCSE Drama emerge with a vast toolkit of transferable skills, applicable both in further studies and in the workplace whatever your chosen career.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Devising Theatre Practical NEA 40%

Unit 2 Performance from a Text Practical NEA 30%

Unit 3 Interpreting Theatre Exam 2hr 30%

GCSE Design & Technology (Product Design)

Product Design offers a unique opportunity in the curriculum for students to identify and solve real problems. Students will look at a range of needs, wants and opportunities and respond to them by designing and making products in a wide range of contexts.

Product Design develops student’s interdisciplinary skills and their capacity for imaginative, innovative thinking, creativity and interdependence. The problem solving skills developed through the study of Product Design are much sought after.

To be successful in Product Design you need to be committed, creative, artistic, motivated, a problem solver and most importantly, enjoy all aspects of the subject and not just making.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Design and Technology in the 21st Century Exam 1hr 30min 30%

Unit 2 Design Project NEA 70%

GCSE French

After studying French for three years, pupils have a good level of competency in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing across many topic areas. In addition to this they have an awareness and knowledge of the culture, customs and way of life in French-speaking countries. In multilingual and multicultural societies, the knowledge of at least one foreign language is highly desirable and is considered essential by many employers.

A GCSE qualification in French will considerably broaden the scope of job opportunities and can be combined successfully with many other subjects at A Level and at University. The study and experience of French will also increase your skill set for life – it develops skills in clear communication, problem-solving, considering ideas from another culture’s point of view, translation, active and fine listening skills and the ability to think quickly. In addition, it enhances your knowledge of English and will boost your literacy skills.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Speaking NEA 30%

Unit 2 Reading and Writing NEA 15%

Unit 3 Listening Exam 45min 20%

Unit 4 Reading and Writing Exam 1hr30 35%

GCSE Geography

Geography is an education in life! Geography is a fascinating and relevant GCSE helping you to make sense of what you see in the world around you. It gives an opportunity to develop a wide range of transferable skills and develop the ability to apply these to unfamiliar situations.

Should you wish to continue your geography studies into the sixth form, it combines well with both science and arts subjects. Importantly, geography is certainly very well regarded by both Universities and employers. Indeed, the beauty of geography is that it really provides an excellent foundation for pursuing academic life yet is equally useful in the working world.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Our Physical and Human World Exam 1hr30 30%

Unit 2 Developing Fieldwork Skills NEA 25%

Unit 3 Our Dynamic and Diverse World Exam 1hr30 30%

Unit 4 Sustainable Solutions NEA 15%

GCSE History

As a department we feel that learning and studying History is a very important part of our understanding of the world we live in today.

History gives students not only a thorough understanding of the wider world they are living in but also important skills which are regarded highly by Universities and employers. In short, History at GCSE level is a demanding yet very interesting and rewarding subject, particularly in terms of results and overall learning. It can certainly be an asset to any future career.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 An in-depth study of Welsh history Exam 1hr 30%

Unit 2 An in-depth study of European and/or World History NEA 20%

Unit 3 A study of a period in world history Exam 1hr 30%

Unit 4 A changing society NEA 20%

GCSE Music

If you enjoy music making in and beyond school then the GCSE Music course is ideal for you. GCSE Music is a hands-on, practical and enjoyable way to explore music of all sorts of styles. This course is an investment in a lifelong interest in music and develops creative thinking as well as emotional and cultural awareness. You’ll also have the opportunity to build your skills in digital music making and editing.

We’ll look at how music is pivotal to movies and stage productions, study the backstory to the pop, rock and jazz scene, explore the way music evolved from the Baroque era forward. Grow your knowledge and enjoyment of music through performing, composing and analysing the work of great musicians. The course is designed to be accessible to all students who have studied music in Years 7 to 9 and caters for students of all abilities and musical tastes. Students will enjoy concert and theatre visits as well as benefiting from an extensive range of extra-curricular activities provided by the music department.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Performing NEA 32.5%

Unit 2 Composing NEA 32.5%

Unit 3 Appraising Exam 1hr30 35%

GCSE Physical Education

GCSE Physical Education will enable pupils to engage in a practical and theoretical course, designed to encourage learners to be inspired, motivated and challenged by the subject and enable them to make informed decisions about further learning opportunities and career pathways. Through studying GCSE Physical Education, pupils will acquire the knowledge, understanding, skills and values to develop and maintain their performance in physical activities and understand the benefits to health, fitness and well-being.

You will learn to make connections between theory and practice so that you are able to apply your understanding of the factors that underpin physical activity and sport and use this knowledge to improve performance. Pupils should be regularly participating in sport and exercise if they are considering the course and have an all round capacity to develop performance in an individual and team sport. This qualification will also provide a coherent, satisfying and worthwhile course of study for you if you do not progress to further study in this subject.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Principles of Physical Education and Health Exam 1hr 30min 40%

Unit 2 Performance and Personal Training NEA 60%

GCSE Religious Studies

Are you interested in exploring some of the world’s most important moral and philosophical issues through debate and discussion with your peers? Do you like exploring different beliefs and cultures? If so, Religious Studies will be an ideal GCSE for you.

Religious Studies is a fascinating and complex, cross-curricular subject with direct relevance to the world we live in. It is impossible to read a newspaper, listen to a programme or use social media without being bombarded with debates about religious and ethical issues, such as medical care, capital punishment, intolerance and a host of other debates and big questions. Studying this GCSE will enable you to become well-informed, reflective and critical thinkers. It is a qualification highly valued by universities and employers alike, across a broad range of subjects and careers, for instance law, journalism, medical sciences, advertising and education.

Structure of GCSE:

Unit 1 Religious and non-religious beliefs, teachings and practices Exam 1hr30 30%

Unit 2 Religion and relationships NEA 20%

Unit 3 Roles, rights and responsibilities Exam 1hr30 30%

Unit 4 Religion and human rights NEA 20%

Triple Science

Studying triple award offers the most interested and able scientists the opportunity to extend their subject knowledge and skill set by widening the content and demand of the topics covered beyond the Double Award. Students will achieve a separate GCSE in each of the three sciences at the end of the course.

If you choose to study triple science this will replace the compulsory Double Science and use 1 option choice.

Please note: it is not a pre-requisite for A Level science subjects or science-related careers to study triple science.

For September 2026 entry this qualification is not a new, updated qualification as is the case with the double award. The separate science qualifications are currently under consultation with WJEC/JCQ. This will decide whether it is possible to adapt the existing qualification to bring it in line with the new double award qualification, or whether to leave it with the old content and structure.

Therefore, the outline below is subject to change (content and structure) by the time students study the course.

Structure of GCSE:

BIOLOGY

Unit 1 Cells, organ systems and ecosystems Exam 1hr45 45%

Unit 2 Variation, homeostasis and micro-organisms Exam 1hr45 45%

Unit 3 Practical Assessment 10%

CHEMISTRY

Unit 1 Chemical substances, reactions and essential resources Exam 1hr45 45%

Unit 2 Chemical bonding, application of chemical reactions and organic chemistry Exam 1hr45 45%

Unit 3 Practical Assessment 10%

PHYSICS

Unit 1 Electricity, energy and waves Exam 1hr45 45%

Unit 2 Forces, space and radioactivity Exam 1hr45 45%

Unit 3 Practical Assessment 10%

Skills Challenge

The Skills Challenge National is a level 2 qualification and is graded A*- C. The Skills Challenge Foundation is a Level 1 qualification and is graded Foundation Pass* or Foundation Pass. Skills Challenge offers opportunity for learners to develop the skills required for higher education, employment and life. All aspects of the Skills Challenge must be successfully completed in order for the certificate to be awarded. The qualification can be awarded a Foundation or National grade depending upon the level of achievement across the component parts:

Individual Project - This is an independent, research based project based on an individually selected subject. Pupils will demonstrate their knowledge and skills to produce a written report based upon their own research. This makes up 50% of the Skills Challenge Certificate.

Enterprise and Employability Challenge - Pupils will have opportunity to develop enterprising skills and attributes to enhance their employability in the future. This contributes 20% of the certificate.

Global Citizenship Challenge - Pupils will develop their understanding and respond appropriately to a global issue. This contributes 15% of the certificate.

Community Challenge - Pupils will have opportunity to develop and participate in activities that will benefit the community. This contributes 15% of the certificate.

Qualifications Plus

This option aims to provide pupils with support in literacy and numeracy, as well as offering the opportunity to study towards other level 2 qualifications developing essential IT and work-related skills.

The IT qualification is a TLM Level 2 Extended Certificate in IT User Skills in Open Systems and Enterprise (ITQ). This qualification is entirely coursework based and is graded as a ‘pass’ once complete. A pass is equivalent to 2 x B grades at GCSE.

As for the second qualification, we’re currently in the process of exploring a range of courses to best suit student needs. The qualification chosen will aim to build crucial work-related skills that will help prepare students for further education and employment.

Q+ will help students to develop wider skills, gain in confidence and also improve their GCSE results. Some pupils do find the usual number of GCSE subjects to be quite challenging, particularly with coursework commitments. Therefore, a reduction by one subject may provide extra time in order to develop a broad range of skills and concentrate efforts.

The additional support can focus on written language skills, for example, spelling, punctuation, comprehension and essay writing and mathematical skills. However, there is also opportunity to gain individual help in all curriculum areas. Support is also provided with organisation and study skills.

SWEET

SWEET is a two-year course designed for secondary school students across the UK, and supports the delivery of a BTEC Level 2 qualification in Personal Growth and Wellbeing.

The programme consists of 8 booklets and includes some of the following topics; Physical Health and Fitness, Emotional Wellbeing, Personal Identity, Environmental Awareness, Financial Awareness and Personal Progress.

The pupil can work at his/her own pace and does not need to finish all 8 booklets to get a qualification. For example; to achieve the equivalent of a ‘B’ at GCSE Level, learners will only need to complete 5 of the 8 booklets.

The SWEET course is taught by Teaching Staff within the Learning Support Department. Classes are generally small in size and are often supported by additional members of staff.

During the lessons, there are lots of opportunities for discussions, no homework tasks are required and the course is 100% coursework based. Due to this, good attendance is vital.

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