We are approaching an exciting but very important time for our Year 9 pupils. We aim to support them through this options process so they can make informed decisions about their future.
Since October half term pupils have been looking at all topics linked to careers and their futures in their PD sessions. When we return in the new year, Mrs Sleaford will be holding an assembly for them (w/c 5th January) to launch options and give them an options booklet that informs them of all the subjects they can choose from, how they are assessed and future pathways. Please take some time to look over this booklet with your child and start discussions about the subjects and their future careers.
Mrs Husband and Mrs Sleaford will be supporting students with SEND and EHCPs in school with choices along with other options that may be more suitable for them as we move through this process. If you have a pupil allocated to the IR and would like to discuss this process further, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
Some things to consider….
Don’t…
Do…
All this information, including the options booklet, will be going live on the website over the next couple of weeks and keep an eye on the sway for updates.
Below is a timeline of events for your reference….
| Date | Event |
| Half Term 2
Oct – Dec 2025 |
PD Lessons
|
| w/c 24th November 2025 | QR code – data gathering to consider interests of pupils to allow blocks to be built around need |
| w/c 5th January 2026 | Options Assembly
|
| 12th & 13th January 2026 | All Y9 pupils will have bespoke small group meetings with Careers advisors
|
| Thursday 16th January 2026 | Y9 Progress and Options Evening – parents and pupils
Mrs Sleaford – Room 111 for additional drop in |
| Monday 19th – Friday 23rd January 2026 | Option subject information week
|
| Monday 26th January 2026 | Option choices go live to pupils – more information to follow on this process nearer the time |
| Monday 2nd February 2026 | Options drop in 3.30pm – 5.00pm – parents and pupils
|
| Friday 6th February 2026 | Option choice deadline |
If you have any questions, please get in touch via email or give the school a call and I will happily discuss this process with you.
Thank you
Mrs Sleaford
Deputy Headteacher: Quality of Education
At The Birley Academy we believe that every student has unique strengths, interests and aspirations. Our curriculum is carefully designed to reflect this diversity.
The Options booklet, which will be available here shortly. provides a comprehensive overview of the subjects we offer, helping you make informed decisions about the next stage of your educational journey, shaping your academic and personal development.
You can download the options booklet here: Options 2026 BIRLEY ACADEMY
A: In exceptional cases, changes may be considered. However, it is crucial to make well-informed decisions during the initial selection process.
A: Teachers, pastoral staff, and the careers team are available to provide guidance and support throughout the decision-making process.
A: Consider subjects that align with your interests and goals while thinking about the career path you might want to follow in the future. Making good choices now will make your next steps in education, employment and training much easier. A varied subject choice will widen your career potential.
If you have any questions or need further assistance, please contact your child’s form tutor in the first instance. If they are unable to help, please contact Mrs Sarah Sleaford (Deputy Headteacher).
We wish you the best in making your GCSE choices and look forward to supporting you in your academic journey at the Birley Academy.
