Options Evening - Wednesday 25th February - 16:30 to 19:30

Welcome to the options page for 2026.

Click the link below to view this years booklet, containing all the information you should need on this years options to help you decide what to choose. Further information will follow on how to choose your options.

OPTIONS BOOKLET 2026

Year 9 options give students the opportunity to choose the subjects they will study in Years 10 and 11. These choices include GCSEs and Level 2 Technical Awards, and should reflect each student’s interests, strengths, and future aspirations.
 

Pathways

We have three pathways to further support the progress and attainment of our students. Exam data is only one element that we consider when placing students in their pathways; we also review their individual prior knowledge, progress data and feedback from Heads of Department. This is an important milestone in your child’s journey at St Clere’s, and we will do everything to support them to make the right choices.
 

Core and Optional Subjects

All students continue with the core curriculum, which includes:

• English
• Mathematics
• Science
• Physical Education (PE)

• Personal Development (PD)

Many schools also require students to study at least one subject from the EBACC pathway, such as a Modern Foreign Language, History, or Geography.
Optional subjects allow students to develop personal interests and gain skills that support future study and career pathways.
 

Types of Qualifications

GCSEs
These are academic qualifications mostly assessed through final exams at the end of Year 11. Some courses may include practical work or coursework alongside the examinations.

Level 2 Technical Awards
These vocational qualifications are equivalent to one GCSE and focus on practical learning in areas such as Health & Social Care, Hospitality, or Child Development. They include a mixture of external assessments—such as exams, projects, or on‑screen tests—and are graded Pass, Merit, Distinction, or Distinction*.