Key Stage 4 Options

This academic year, you will take part in a series of decision-making exercises through Life Skills lessons, in your normal subject lessons, and at the Year 9 Options Evening. You will be given information about the subjects available for study as you begin to focus your learning in Years 10 and 11. Do not worry if you feel that you cannot take this all in at once or if there is something you do not understand – you will have many opportunities to clarify anything you need to.

There will be lots of ways to make sense of all the information: by asking your teachers and tutors, by speaking to Year 9 leaders, and by emailing options@maltbyacademy.com by reading the Options Booklet, watching the subject videos, and by discussing your ideas with your family and friends.

When selecting your subjects, please bear in mind the following:

• You should choose subjects that you like or think you will enjoy. These will usually be the subjects in which you will achieve your best results.
• There will be no easy subjects! You may find them easier because you enjoy them and have a talent in that area, but there will be no easy options at KS4 and all will require hard work.
• Make sure you are clear about what subject content will be covered on the course and how it will be assessed. This information will be found in the Options Booklet.
• Do not choose a subject just because your friend will. Your interests and abilities will not necessarily be the same, and there will be no guarantee that you will be placed in the same class.
• Do not choose a subject because of your like or dislike of a particular teacher. There will be no certainty as to which teachers you will have in any year group for any subject.
• You should discuss your choices with your parents/carers as well as your teachers, and if you have any questions or problems, you will be able to seek advice in school or from the Options Booklet.
• Every Year 9 student will be supported by an interview to discuss their preferred choices and secure the best combination for you.
• Once you have chosen a subject, you will be making a commitment to follow the course over the next two years, and you will not be able to change (except under the most exceptional circumstances)

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