This booklet has been prepared to enable you and your parents/carers to have an opportunity to study the type of courses and examinations you will be following during the next two years.  It contains some information that I will present on Options Evening and information you can discuss with Heads of Department.  You may want to examine some additional Careers information by contacting Mrs Pattison-Wake.

At St. Mary’s the core curriculum involves studying the following subjects at GCSE:

• Religious Education
• Mathematics
• English
• Science

The most able scientists will be offered the opportunity to study the three separate Sciences to GCSE.  The majority of students will follow a Combined Science course.  This leads to a GCSE grade in Core Science and Additional Science. 

Most students will have two Physical Education lessons each week.  This is separate from GCSE Physical Education and is designed to allow students to pursue sports at competitive and recreational level.  This should be fun and develop health and well-being.

This is scheduled to take place on Wednesday 11^th March 2026.  During this evening, I will speak about the options process, some information about different courses and some advice to make the right options choices.  Following this introduction there will be the opportunity for you and your parents to speak to subject specialists about different courses we offer at St Marys.

You need to choose three subjects from the list below – 1 subject must be from ‘Choice A’ and 2 subjects from ‘Choice B and C’.  Any student who wants to discuss their options with a member of staff should arrange to speak with Mr Giampalma.

We offer a vocational option in Hospitality and Catering for pupils who are interested in this industry and who may find traditional examinations more challenging.  This course is designed with a strong emphasis on continuous assessment, allowing pupils to develop practical skills and demonstrate their learning throughout the year.

Key Stage 4 Options Evening on Wednesday 11^th March 2026

Following Options evening, the Options form will be accessible on Microsoft Forms.  You need to choose 1 subject from ‘Choice A’ and 2 subjects from ‘Choice B and C’.  If you are unsure, please speak to your subject teachers, Mrs Avery or Mr Giampalma.  Following Options Evening you will need to submit your completed form by Thursday 19^th March 2026.  If there are any problems about your course choices, I will discuss alternative option subjects with you.