Choosing your GCSE subjects is an exciting step in your academic journey. At the Birley Academy, we offer a diverse range of subjects to cater to your interests and aspirations. This page provides essential information to help you and your family make informed decisions about your GCSE options. 

Key Dates 2024: 

• Options Evening: Monday 29th January 2024, Time: 5:30pm-6:30pm
  
• Year 9 Parents’ Evening: Thursday 25^th January 2024, Time: 4pm-7pm
  
• Meet with teachers to discuss progress in each subject. 
  
• Attend a presentation informing you about the GCSE options process. 
  
• Options process opens: Friday 26^th January 2024 
  
• Deadline for submission: Friday 9^th February 2024 
  
• Ensure your options form is submitted by this date. 

How to choose your options: 

1. Research: 

• Explore the details of each GCSE subject offered at the Birley Academy. 
• Consider your interests, strengths, and future career goals. 
• Xello.world is an online platform where you can explore hundreds of career, college, and university options that match your interests. You will be given a login for this during tutor time. 

2. Attend options parents’ evening: 

• Attend the Options Parents’ Evening to gather information and ask questions directly to subject teachers. 

3. Speak to others: 

• If you have specific questions or need guidance, don’t hesitate to speak with your subject teachers or with pupils in year 10 or 11 who are already studying the subject. 

4. Parental guidance: 

• Discuss your choices with your parents or carers. Their insights can be valuable in making informed decisions. 

GCSE subject options

Assessed Subjects				Non-Assessed
Compulsory	Options			Compulsory
Core Subjects	Humanities (choose one or both)	English Baccalaureate	Options	Assessed Subjects
English Language English Literature Mathematics Science (Combined: Trilogy)	History Geography	French	Biology / Chemistry / Physics Religious Studies Art Performing Arts (drama or music) Food and Nutrition Resistant Materials Graphics Engineering Creative iMedia Sport Health & Social Care Travel & Tourism	Core PE PSHE (inc. RE and computing)

For more information about each subject please read the GCSE Options Booklet

For more information about Year 9 Options please see the Parents Options Evening

FAQs: 

Q: Can I change my options after I’ve made my choices? 

A: In exceptional cases, changes may be considered. However, it is crucial to make well-informed decisions during the initial selection process. 

Q: What support is available for making choices? 

A: Teachers, pastoral staff, and the careers team are available to provide guidance and support throughout the decision-making process. 

Q: How will my options affect my future studies and career? 

A: Consider subjects that align with your interests and goals while thinking about the career path you might want to follow. Use Xello.world to help with these ideas. Making good choices now will make your chosen pathway easier but remember it will not be completely impossible to change pathway if you want to in the future. 

Contact Us: 

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 Mr B. Coleman (assistant 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.