The Options process begins early in the Spring Term with an Options assembly, which outlines the Options programme. Students are given a Key Stage 4 Options Booklet that details the courses available for Years 10 and 11.

The Options programme is based on the best predictions of what will suit Hurstmere students, which includes a broad range of subjects leading to a GCSE qualification and some vocational Technical Awards.

Students are encouraged to discuss their Option subjects with parents/guardians and to seek the advice of people in school, including the Form Tutors and their Raising Standards Leader who are always ready to help.

The structure of the curriculum for the two-year course starts with the compulsory National Curriculum. The following curriculum subjects must be studied by all pupils in Years 10 and 11:

• English Language
• English Literature
• Mathematics
• Science
• Physical Education (non-exam)
• Religious Education (non-exam)
• Personal Development (non-exam)

Option Subjects 2025-27 Process (for September 2025 teaching) *Subject to confirmation

Options Calendar 2025

Thursday 30th January 2025 - Year 9 Parents' Evening

W/C Monday 3rd February 2025 – Options Presentations from Departments go live

Wednesday 5th February 2025 - Year 9 Options Assembly

Thursday 13th February 2025 - Academic Review Day 
             (All Year 9’s will have a remote learning day)

Friday 28th February 2025 - Subject Selector Form deadline (this is on MS Forms)

  - The dates in bold text above are revised dates

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Options Presentations

Making curriculum choices in Year 9 is an important part of your time in school and may influence what course or job you decide to do after Year 11. The following presentations from Curriculum Leaders and subject specialists have been produced for the 2025 Options process.

Please take the time to view each of the presentations and particularly consider those Options subjects that are not taught at Key Stage 3. Some presentations are narrated and some are just the powerpoint. After viewing these, if you have any further questions, please contact the Curriculum Leader for that subject directly.

The Subject Selection Form will be available from Wednesday 5th February 2025.