Options

The Options Process is an important time for your child; the decisions that they make will impact upon the next phase of their education. Selecting appropriate options choices now is crucial if our young people are to succeed in their GCSEs and are to be prepared for life after Ryedale School.

 

How Many Subjects Will My Child Study?

All students are required to study mathematics, English language, English literature and at least two sciences at GCSE level. Other subjects, such as core physical education, religious education, citizenship and personal development do not lead to examinations but remain valuable compulsory elements of the curriculum.

In addition, students choose four options subjects; all students will select one of the humanities, some students will select one modern foreign language and students remaining options are selected from an extensive list that includes art, drama, food preparation & nutrition, geography, history, computer science, music, religious studies, design and technology, GCSE physical education, and BTEC animal care.

Most students will therefore be entered for nine GCSEs in total.

The only exceptions are:

  • -  Students who study Triple Science will be entered for ten GCSEs in total
  • -  A small number of students who would benefit from some additional support will be guided towards taking three option subjects (eight GCSEs in total). Those opting for three rather than four options will use the extra time available to support the learning, coursework, homework and preparation for assessments in their remaining eight GCSE courses. Maths and English will be a major focus of this support.

 

Guided Choices

To ensure that all students study an appropriate, broad and balanced curriculum at GCSE, we construct Options Pathways from which students should choose their guided option choices.

Students should look carefully at their pathway and then select from the subjects available to them. We also ask that students choose reserve options choices in case a course is not viable.

All students will receive guidance and support throughout the process. For those that require additional support, there will be 1:1 options support meetings.

 

 

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