Key Stage 4 Options 2025

Key Stage 4 options information for year 9 students and parents/carers is provided below, including links to the Key Stage 4 Options Handbook (view the interactive flipping book or download the PDF) and options presentation.

Key Stage 4 Options Handbook 2025

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Download the KS4 Options Handbook here >>

Key Stage 4 Options Presentation (below)

KS4 Options Presentation - Pupils >>

The Key Stage 4 Options Handbook contains information about the key stage 4 curriculum, the options process and details of the subjects available to students in years 10 and 11. There is also useful advice for students to assist them in making decision.

In summary, at key stage 4, all students will study compulsory subjects:

English, mathematics, science, PE, PSHE (Citizenship) and religious education.

Students are required to choose optional subjects to study alongside these subjects. Students are guided to a pathway to ensure an appropriate route. In summary:

Blue Pathway: includes the study of the compulsory subjects; technology, a modern Language (French, German or Spanish), two option subjects, study of GCSE Citizenship for early entry at the end of year 10 and the opportunity to study GCSE Further Maths in year 11.
White Pathway: includes the study of the compulsory subjects; technology; three option subjects (students may still opt to study a modern language).

Some students may be advised to opt for Study Support and/or alternative courses instead of one or more options.

Frequently Asked QUESTIONS

How was it decided which pathway students are on?

Pathway recommendations are largely determined by a student’s prior performance and review data. We also use other information such as CATs (Cognitive Abilities Test). The College’s SENDCo, curriculum and pastoral teams are also involved in guiding pathway decisions to ensure all students are placed on the appropriate pathway.

Can a student change pathway?

Pathway recommendations have been very carefully considered (see above). Students are strongly recommended to follow their guided pathway. Students are encouraged to discuss any questions with their tutor in the first instance. If a student would like further information, they should speak to Mrs Keen, Assistant Principal.

Can a student change options once the course has started?

Making carefully considered, informed choices when the options form is first submitted will ensure the strongest start to KS4 studies. To ensure students are fully informed on options subjects, and therefore make appropriate choices, they are strongly recommended to read all the information in the KS4 Options Booklet, speak to their tutor and attend the Options Subject Marketplace to speak to teachers of the options they are considering. If, once the course has started, a student is considering an option change, they should initially speak to the teacher of their current option subject to gain further support and understanding and resolve their concerns. They should also discuss their considerations with their tutor. Changing options is not guaranteed, but it may be possible during the first half term (availability of options and spaces will be limited). As the student would have to catch up on any work missed, it is not possible to change options after the first half term.

Key Stage 4 Options Timeline

Monday 10 March: Key Stage 4 Options Launch
Tuesday 11 March onwards: Student reflection in tutor and taster sessions
Wednesday 19 March: Subject Marketplace, 5.00pm-6.00pm in the Inner Link
Wednesday 26 and Monday 31 March: Year 9 parents' evenings
Friday 4 April: Options form submission deadline

Parents/carers should have received a letter (by end of week beginning 10 March) that includes information on their son’s/daughter’s recommended pathway. More information about the pathways can be found in the Options Handbook.