Saddleworth School

OPTIONS 2008-2009

The Curriculum at Key Stage 4

• Compulsory core subjects

• Optional subjects

Compulsory core subjects

• Full GCSE– Mathematics– English (Language and Literature)– Science (Double award) – Modern Foreign Language– ICT (Business and Communication Studies)

• Short course GCSE (1/2 GCSE) Religious Education

• BTEC Sport (Physical Education)• Non examined

– Personal and Social Education and Citizenship

Optional subjects

• Some new subjects• Some new qualifications

(details in Options Guide)

• Study 3 subjects to qualification level in addition to the core

• Keep the future open – go for a balanced curriculum

Qualifications explained

GCSE– grades A* - C = level 2– grades D - G = level 1

• BTEC First Certificate = level 2 – grades Pass, Merit & Distinction– a vocational qualification equivalent to 2 GCSEs at

grades A* - C

• NCFE Certificate = level 2– a vocational qualification equivalent to 2 GCSEs at

grades A* - C

The Option Process • Issued today (29th February 2008)

– Options Guide – Parents’ Consultation Evening letter– Option Information Evening letter – Y9 subject reports

• Return straight away – information evening slip (Wednesday 5th March 2008)– report received slip– parents’ evening reply slip (deadline 07/03/08)

• Return after parents’ eve– Option choices form (deadline 14/04/08)

The Option Process

• Support from– Connexions (Mr Alderson)– PSE lessons– Form tutors– Mr Barton / Mr Douglas– Subject teachers– Parents– Senior Leadership Team

The Options Choices Form

• one subject from column 1 – Your first language = French (must see Miss Weatherspoon if different to this)

• four subjects from column 2 – write in order of preference – only three of these subjects will actually be takenNote any exam board restrictions on choices combinations

• A parent or carer signature neededDeadline = Monday 14th April 2008

Important • Limits on class size and available resources • Final decisions will rest with the school

How to make subject choices

• Read Options Guide carefully• Find out more from teachers• Discuss with at Parent Consultation evening• Get advice from tutors, Connexions and parents• Think about

√ What you are good at √ What you enjoy√ How you learn best√ The methods of assessment√ Possible future career paths√ Keeping options open

How to make subject choices

Don’t choose courses because × You like the teacher (or reject courses because

you don’t like him/her) – the teacher could be different next year

× Your friends are choosing them – they are different from you and have different strengths and interests.

Help ? – see Mrs Rogers / Mr Barton