Choosing GCSE Options

Making Your Year 9 Options Choices

Choosing your subjects in Year 9 is an important step in shaping your future. The options you pick for Years 10 and 11 will influence what you study, how you spend your time at school, and what opportunities you have after Year 11.

This is your chance to take control of your learning and start working towards the future you want. Choose subjects that interest and motivate you. Think about what you enjoy, what you’re good at, and what makes you want to do your best.

Don’t be influenced by outdated ideas—subjects aren’t just for boys or girls. Everyone in Year 9 is going through this, and you’re not alone. Talk to your teachers, friends, parents/carers, and our Careers Leader or Adviser—they’re all here to support you.

If you have a career in mind, make sure your choices match the entry requirements. If you're unsure, choose a mix of subjects to keep your options open after Year 11.

Good reasons to choose a subject:

• You enjoy it or are good at it

• It fits your career ideas

• It complements your other choices

• It keeps your options open for post-16

• You might want to study it further

• Your research shows it will keep you engaged

Not good reasons to choose a subject:

• Your friends are doing it

• You think it will be easy

• You think it suits your gender

• Someone else chose it for you

• You like your current teacher

• You didn’t take time to research properly

Make informed, thoughtful choices—you’re planning for your future.