How many subject choices will I make? 

GCSE Options: 

• Choice 1. Select 1 from the following; History, Geography, Spanish or French. 

• Choices 2-5. You will rank, in order of preference, a further 4 subject choices, of which you will be allocated 3. (Note you must not select the subject you have already nominated in choice 1). 

How to make the right choices  

It is important students have the desire to study the subject. Students are urged to seek out answers to the following questions. This could be a great starting point for conversations with Curriculum Leaders or with subject teaching staff, especially within any taster lessons. 

Are you interested in the subject? Are you interested in the topics listed?

Have you looked at the topics on the subject information pages and seen what the class work will be like? Have you considered the experiences and comments of Years 9, 10 or 11 students? 

Will you enjoy the subject?

If it is a subject you currently take, have you considered how it might be different at Key Stage 4? How it might be similar? Be sure you are interested in the subject and not just because of your current teacher, as remember this could change. 

Do you have the skills required? Are you willing to develop the skills required?

Some subjects value different types of skills over others. If you don't feel you have the skills mentioned, this should not be a reason to stop you from doing the subject, but do consider; are you prepared and willing to develop and improve those areas? What could you do now to start to develop in this area? 

Are your choices broad? Have you got a balanced and broad combination of subjects?

If you are unsure of where your future may take you, as many students at this stage often feel, it is important to choose a varied combination of subjects so that you have a broad range of study areas to help you develop a wide range of skills and knowledge. 

If you have thought about specific careers are there any specific subjects I should study? 

Areas such as medicine, the arts and languages often have specific subject requirements for university. Have you checked what subjects you should study if you have already thought about what you might like to do in the future? Have you explored the subjects recommended via Unifrog? You could also look at UCAS to find out about the entry requirements for particular courses at university. 

The Russell Group of universities also produces a helpful website, which may support you in thinking about the types of subjects that could be useful in the future, whether or not you already know your area of interest. Click here to access their information and guidance. 

We also have a student futures manager- Mrs Targett, you could go and have a chat with Mrs Targett in the Library to talk about subjects and career pathways!