elective subjects offered in Year 9 

What subjects are compulsory in Year 9 and10?

Catholic Studies, English, Maths, Science, PDHPE, History and Geography

What elective subjects can I choose from?

The subjects you can choose from are listed above - each yellow box is a link to a page and video about that subject.

How many electives can I choose?

You will be allowed to choose TWO subjects to study as electives in Yr 9 2026. You will also choose two "reserve subjects" in case one doesn't run or the class is full

Will all subjects run?

Not necessarily - it depends on how many students choose each subject and the combination of students doing each subject.

What happens if I choose a subject that doesn't run?

If you choose a subject that doesn't run, then you will get one of your backups - if they are not running either, we will be in contact with you to make an additional choice. 

What if I am studying Accelerated Mathematics in Year 9?

Students who are invited and accept to undertake Accelerated Mathematics in Year 9, will only select 1 other elective.

Will I get both of my first choices?

No. You should get one of your first choices, so make sure to put your favourite first!! Some people may get both of their top choices and in very rare cases, some people may not get either of their first choices - We will contact you if that happens. 

How do I select my choices?

You will get a letter with a link and a login code to make your subject choices online. You will be required to sign for your letter and to bring a printed copy of your selections signed by your parents and return to the office. 

Does it matter what order I put my selections in?

YES!! Please make sure to put your favourite choice first. The computer chooses the best combination of subjects to put on a line to try and make sure all students get their top choice. Please also make sure to choose reserve subjects that you actually are interested in as you may end up in that course. 

Who is teaching the subject?

It doesn't matter!! Choose a subject you are interested in studying for two years. Do not base your choice on who is or who is not teaching a course or on what your friends might also be choosing. In some subjects we have two or three classes, so whilst you may choose a subject the same as your friends - it doesn't mean that you will be in the same class (and no, you can't change classes!!)

What if I don't want to do any of those subjects?

We don't have any other options for elective study at St Patrick's. 

Who can I ask for additional help?

You can ask the various Leaders of Learning for each subject - they are listed on the subject page. You can ask your Leader of Wellbeing or come and see Mr Carr, the Head of Learning. 

How many periods a fortnight is each subject?

Six. 

Can I change a subject if I don't like it?

You can change your choices at the end of Yr 8 once you have been assigned a course. If, once you start Yr 9, you don't like a course, you can change in the first three weeks (as long as there are spaces available in the class). In some rare cases, you can change courses at the end of Yr 9 - this needs to be done with consultation with Mr Carr and with the Leader of Learning and class teacher to ensure you can complete outcomes and work in Yr 10 if you have missed Yr 9 content and skills.