Year 9 Options 2026
Year 9 Options
Year 9 is an important milestone. At the end of this year, students will complete Key Stage 3 (KS3) and move into Key Stage 4 (KS4), where they will begin their GCSE courses. This is an exciting stage because students will have some choice over the subjects they study. Our options process is designed to make sure every child continues to access a broad and balanced curriculum that gives them the best possible start for life after Year 11.
For many students, this will include a pathway that encourages the study of the English Baccalaureate (EBacc) subjects. The EBacc isn’t a separate qualification—it’s a group of GCSE subjects, including a language, that provide a strong foundation of knowledge and skills. Even if your child hasn’t decided on a future career yet, choosing an EBacc pathway helps keep doors open for university, apprenticeships, and a wide range of employment opportunities. It’s also highly valued by most universities and employers.
At the same time, we know that every child is unique. It’s important that students choose subjects that suit their interests, strengths, and future aspirations. That’s why we offer a range of pathways, including both GCSE and vocational courses, to make sure every student can succeed. Pathways will be allocated based on our full understanding of each child and their progress so far, with the aim of giving them the best chance of success beyond Year 11.
If your child’s proposed pathway does not feel right for them, please be assured that we are flexible as a school. Our priority is to ensure that every student studies the qualifications that best match their needs and ambitions. We will work with you to make any necessary adjustments so that your child feels confident and supported in their choices.
All of the pathways on offer will cover the core curriculum consisting of:
- English Language & Literature
- Mathematics
- Science
- Learning for Life (PSHCSE/ Careers)
- Physical Education
In addition to the core curriculum, the pathways will offer students some choice from a selection of subjects. The pathways are as follows:
|
Pathway |
Cohort % |
Curriculum studied |
|
Triple
|
25% |
|
|
Open+ |
40%
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
In order to support the options process, we have the following events running:
Options Timeline
Monday 26th January – Friday 13th February 2026 – Options Information and SIMS Online Registration
During these three weeks, your child(ren) will be given the pathway they will be studying and will be able to discuss this during a one-to-one interview with the options team. Faculties will also share information about the subjects and courses during lessons. Students will also receive information on the courses available to them through a year group assembly.
Wednesday 4th March 2026 – Options Evening 6pm - 8pm
Parents and carers will be invited into school to attend an options evening, with your child(ren), which will go through the options process and provide more information on the courses available. There will be computers and support available to use to complete their options choices on the evening. In preparation for this, students will receive their login details for the SIMS options software during PD time on this day. Booking information for Options Evening will follow shortly.
Friday 13th March 2026 - Options Submission Deadline
The deadline for students to complete their option choices online is Friday 13th March. Please be aware that if the options are not selected by this date, they may not be able to study their chosen options.