Choosing I/GCSE Subjects “Selecting I/GCSEs marks a significant step in a pupil’s educational journey. It’s an exciting opportunity to reflect on what they genuinely enjoy, where their strengths lie, and what paths they may wish to explore beyond Year 11. At St Hugh’s, we guide pupils to make informed, thoughtful choices based not just on future aspirations, but equally on enthusiasm and curiosity. In our experience, a pupil who enjoys a subject is far more likely to thrive in it. Enjoyment fosters motivation, and motivation leads to real progress.”
Your Options All pupils will study the core subjects of English Language, English Literature, Mathematics, and Science. Science will be studied as either Double Award Science or as three Separate Sciences. The students will have four (in the case of Separate Sciences) or five (in the case of Double Award Science) further choices. For most students, one of these should be a language, and one should be a humanities subject. All students will have weekly lessons in PSHE, Religious Studies, and PE/Games, and enrichment sessions which will include Duke of Edinburgh.
Optional subjects Art
Business Studies Computer Science Design Technology Drama Food Preparation and Nutrition French Geography Global Citizenship History Latin Music Physical Education Religion Studies
Mrs Freya Ridley-DeMonick, Deputy Head Academic
The Structure of I/GCSE Choices at St Hugh’s Students at St Hugh’s will typically select: • One language from French, Spanish, or Latin • One humanities subject from Geography, History, or Religious Studies Beyond these, pupils will choose from a wide selection of other subjects, including the creative arts, technology and additional humanities or languages, allowing them to tailor their curriculum to reflect their interests and strengths. While some subjects may be grouped into option blocks to accommodate the timetable, we will do our utmost to ensure that pupils can study their preferred combination. In the rare case of a timetable clash, we will contact families as early as possible to find a suitable solution. It may be possible that a n I/GCSE can be offered as a lunchtime club or after-school pursuit. Support and Guidance We are fully aware that this decision can feel daunting for pupils, and they will not be making it alone. In the Autumn Term of Year 9, pupils and their parents will be invited to an Options Evening where our curriculum expectations will be discussed. Students and parents can meet with subject teachers
and explore the different courses available. Students will submit their options forms by the end of February half term, allowing time for careful planning. Looking Beyond I/GCSEs It is important to emphasise that I/GCSE choices do not define a student’s life or career path. Interests evolve, and many pupils discover new passions during their studies. What matters now is that they build a solid, enjoyable academic experience that gives them confidence, develops transferable skills, and keeps doors open for the future. That noted, it is preferable to choose subjects that may be closely related to potential A-Level or university interests. This is particularly true of certain subjects such as medicine or veterinary science. Although it can be helpful to consider A - Level or university ambitions when selecting I/GCSEs, it is equally important to focus on what excites and motivates the pupil today. Choosing a subject because a friend enjoys it or because they like a particular teacher is never the best approach; these circumstances can change, but a genuine interest in a subject is a reliable foundation.
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