Year 8 Options

Options Process 

During the Spring of Year 8 your son will choose the subjects he wishes to study at Key Stage 4 in addition to the core subjects of:

  • English Language
  • English Literature
  • Mathematics
  • Science (either Combined or 'Triple' separate sciences)
  • Personal Development (PD, not examined)
  • Physical Education (Core PE, not examined)
  • Ethics & Moraility (not examined, year 9 only)
  • Computer Science (IT skills, not examined, year 9 only)

He will need to choose four further subjects, plus reserve subjects, and will need to think carefully about this, and speak to lots of different people. What does he enjoy? What is he good at? What does he want to do when he leaves school? Has he thought about a career? Click here for information about Adviza Careers service. 

We encourage boys who are aspiring for places at university to study for The English Baccalaureate, meaning he will need to choose a modern foreign language and Geography or History, or both. Whilst this is encouraged, we recognise that each student will have his own particular strengths, talents and areas of interest. We strongly urge all students to opt for a range of courses to support their future progression rather than following a narrow field.

The options process runs throughout the Spring term of Year 8 and includes an information evening for parents as well as the publication of our Options Booklet and our popular Options Event – a chance to come and talk informally to and about the subjects the boys are hoping to study at Key Stage 4.

To ensure your son makes the most appropriate choices for his future, we support him in a variety of ways through this process. We offer:

  • Focused 'Options' assemblies
  • Specific 'Careers' lessons within Personal Development
  • One-to-one meetings with the careers advisor
  • 'Taster' lessons in some new subjects
  • Support from Head of Year, Tutor and Student Support Managers
  • An Options Evening
  • Offer of further meetings with various pastoral staff

Key contacts throughout this process are:

 

Mr Irwin's Parent Information Evening 2025 recording can be downloaded here.

 


Miss Collins' Careers Loom

 

Options Booklet - 2025

 

 

Important Dates for the Options Process 2025

Date

Stage

Wednesday 15th January

Options Parent Information Event

w/c 27th January

Options Assembly for Year 8 Students

w/c 10th February

Year 8 data drop published

Half Term

Wednesday 26th February

Options Event for students and families

During Term 4

Taster sessions in ‘new’ subjects (requires sign up) - TBC

Monday 27th March

Option form submission deadline

Prior to the summer holiday

Written confirmation of your son’s option choices for Key Stage 4

 

House System

St Birinus has a vibrant House system which ensures that staff and students work together to create a positive school community where everyone is included.
Discover More
Back to Top