The pathways

The teaching staff and leadership team have collaboratively developed various pathways for the options process this year. Each student has been assigned to a specific pathway based on their academic achievements and interests. Letters informing students of their designated pathway will be sent home tomorrow. If you have any questions or would like to discuss this further, please feel free to approach Mrs. Grover or a member of the senior leadership team.


Each pathway is designed to follow the English Baccalaureate, or EBacc, which is a set of core academic subjects that many schools in England encourage students to study. It includes English, mathematics, sciences, a language, and a humanities subjects like history or geography. The EBacc offers several benefits. Firstly, it provides a well-rounded education, fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills across various disciplines. Secondly, achieving the EBacc can enhance a student's prospects for further education and employment, as it demonstrates a strong academic foundation. Additionally, studying these subjects can open doors to a wide range of career paths, from STEM fields to international opportunities, by instilling versatility and adaptability. Overall, embracing the EBacc can empower students with the knowledge and skills they need to thrive in an increasingly competitive and interconnected world.

Red Pathway:

The Red Pathway is designed for students aiming to pursue the full English Baccalaureate (EBacc) qualification. This pathway offers a structured approach to academic learning, focusing on a core set of subjects.

Option 1: French (Compulsory)

Option 2: Choose one from History, Computer Science, or Geography

Options 3 and 4: Choose any remaining subjects based on personal preference and interest.

This pathway emphasizes a balanced curriculum, combining linguistic proficiency with a strong foundation in humanities and STEM subjects.

Blue Pathway:

The Blue Pathway also follows an EBacc route but offers more flexibility in subject choices beyond the first option.

Option 1: Choose one from French, History, Computer Science, or Geography (Compulsory)

Options 2, 3, and 4: Free choice of subjects based on personal interest and career aspirations.

Students on the Blue Pathway have the opportunity to tailor their studies to suit their individual strengths and passions, while still meeting the requirements of the EBacc.

Yellow Pathway:

The Yellow Pathway is characterized by its openness and flexibility, allowing students to explore a wide range of subjects without constraints.

Options 1, 2, 3, and 4: Free choice of subjects based on personal interest, passion, and career aspirations.

Students on the Yellow Pathway have the freedom to craft a bespoke curriculum that reflects their unique talents and ambitions, paving the way for a diverse range of academic and vocational pathways.


At Ipswich Academy, we believe in empowering students to make informed choices about their education. We encourage you to explore each pathway carefully, considering your strengths, interests, and long-term goals. Our dedicated team of teachers and advisors are here to support you every step of the way as you embark on this exciting journey.

If you have any questions or need further guidance, please do not hesitate to contact us.