GCSE Options 2026-27

This site is currently undergoing updates in readiness for the new option cycle begining in October 2026.

Welcome to the KS4 Programme of Study

Dear Students,

As you begin your journey into Key Stage 4 (KS4), you are about to make important decisions regarding your GCSE options. The transition from Year 9 to Year 10 can be an anxious time for both students and parents. Over the next few weeks, you will need to make choices that will shape the next two years of your school life and potentially influence your future career path.

This document is designed to help guide you through the process of making your GCSE choices, outlining the subjects on offer and offering advice on how to make informed decisions.

Making Your Choices

It’s important to remember that the decisions you make now will impact your academic success and future career opportunities. The subjects you choose will help lay the foundation for the next stage of your learning journey. Be sure to select courses that balance your strengths, interests, and any future aspirations you may have.

At Archbishop McGrath, you will study a combination of compulsory subjects and three optional subjects:

Compulsory Subjects:

• Mathematics & Numeracy, English Language and Literature, Science(s), RE, Welsh, PE

Optional Subjects: You will have the opportunity to choose three optional subjects from the following list:

• Art, Business Studies, Computing, Drama, Product Design, French, Geography, History, Health and Social Care, Information Technology, Media Studies, Music, Nutrition, PE, Learning in Outdoor Education, Prince’s Trust, Skills Challenge Certificate.

Tips for Making Your Choices

Over the coming weeks, you will receive more information about your options and the decision-making process. The most important advice we can give is to ensure that your choices will set you up for success. We want to avoid any unnecessary stress or frustration, so it is important that you choose subjects that align with your strengths and interests. Struggling with an option can affect your performance in other subjects.

Please take the time to speak with your teachers about the subjects you are considering. They can help you assess whether you are likely to succeed and reach your potential in those subjects. School is a place to learn and be challenged, but most importantly, it is where you can succeed.

Support and Guidance

Throughout this process, the staff at school are here to support you. Be sure to read all the information carefully, and discuss your choices with both your parents and teachers. Remember, these decisions will help open doors to further opportunities, including Level 3 (A Level) courses and apprenticeships. The choices you make could also influence future university pathways and career options.

To gain further insight, we encourage you to speak with teachers and older students about their experiences with different GCSE subjects.

Further Questions?

If you have any questions or would like further advice, please feel free to contact the school directly. You can reach me by email or speak with me in person. My contact details are listed below.

Good luck as you begin this exciting new chapter of your education!

Best wishes,
Mrs M Farrow
Raising Standards Leader 

Mr B. Davies
Assistant Headteacher

Free Choice Form - please complete this form as soon as you can.  It allows us to have an indication about what you might finally choose: