Allocating Subjects

How are classes allocated...

Whilst we strive to be able to accommodate all student Option choices, in some cases we may require students to consider alternative subjects. Having students select a reserve choice gives us the best possible chance of being able to allocate students' choices successfully. As such, it is important students are prepared to study all of the choices they submit. While it is very unlikely we will need to ask a student to consider their reserve choice this may happen due to certain limitations on the school timetable.

Reserve choices are more likely to be used where students have opted for subjects which:

1. May be popular and the number of classes and places are limited

2. Form part of a combination of selected subjects which has not proved popular within the current cohort

3. Has not been a popular option choice within the cohort and it is therefore not possible to run that subject with the small class number

It is therefore necessary to reiterate the importance of ensuring students are prepared to study all of the the subjects they have opted for on their choice submission. It may not be possible for students to change once allocations have been made. 

What if classes are over-subscribed...

Due to timetable limitations there are some subjects where the number of classes of a particular subject is limited, this may also include a strict student maximum for health and safety reasons in the classroom. 

If subjects are oversubscribed, we use the subject selection order (rankings) to determine entry into the subjects. If the subject is still oversubscribed and has not been resolved through student rankings, then we will employ a random lottery to allocate students. We assure you this process is always conducted fairly.

What if I wand to change my Options...

Students who have been allocated their choices will not be eligible to request amendments until students who have had to consider alternatives have been consulted with and re-allocated their . It is important to note that changes may not be possible due to timetable conflicts or over-subscription of subjects and/or class capacity has been reached.

Students can request changes following allocations, subject to availability. They can also request amendments within their first 4 weeks of term, upon their return to school in September.