FINAL GCSE options booklet 2026

The Curriculum

The curriculum is made up of two parts : core subjects and option subjects . Core subjects

All students study the following subjects :

English Language English Literature Mathematics Sciences ( at least two from Biology , Chemistry , Physics )

Option Subjects

For some students , however , it is more appropriate to take eight GCSEs to give them more time to devote to each subject and therefore increase their chances of getting higher grades . We would recommend consideration of this option where a student has a considerable extra - curricular commitment ( e . g . playing sport / music / drama at a regional or national level ). We also encourage students to consider this option if they have extra time in examinations as this often means that they will need additional time to process new learning and to complete homework . Students selecting eight GCSEs may choose to study one Science subject only if they wish , to allow them to retain four option choices alongside the core subjects . Students who take eight GCSEs will either be allocated independent study in the lesson time allocated for the ninth subject or they will enter our academic mentoring programme , depending on the individual level of learning support required . The academic mentoring programme is designed to support students in developing their independent learning skills , such as organisation of workload , and may also provide additional support with core subjects , if required . Most students will take nine GCSEs and choose four option subjects to study alongside the core subjects . There is also an option to take Further Maths GCSE in Year 11 allowing some students to study ten GCSEs in total .

When deciding on the number of GCSEs to study , please remember that universities and employers will look at the quality of the grades , not the quantity .

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