Options KS4 Information

As you may be aware, the government introduced a new qualification in Key Stage 4. This new qualification is called the English Baccalaureate and will be awarded to students who gain A* to C passes at GCSE in five subject areas; English, Maths, Science, Humanities and Languages. Currently, the recognised subjects in Humanities are Geography and History.

Our curriculum offer has always given students the breadth of subjects that stand them in good stead for the future. Students who are awarded the Baccalaureate will no doubt have an advantage when applying for further and higher education places in the future as it becomes more established. The Year 8 Options have been designed to give our students every opportunity to achieve this qualification.

All students will be expected to undertake at least one Humanities subject and a Modern Foreign Language. The majority of students will be offered French as a Language but Spanish and Mandarin will also be available as an alternative to French for those students who are deemed capable of achieving a good grade in these subjects over the three years in Key Stage 4.

The curriculum has been designed to provide breadth and balance, as well as allowing students the freedom to follow courses that cater for a range of particular interests. The aim of this curriculum is to ensure that all students are academically challenged and engaged, resulting in high levels of exam success whilst also developing high-level skills.

In addition to the support students receive from home, the choices they make will be supported by their tutors and their subject teachers. There will be opportunities to obtain advice and guidance from the website and from teachers at the Academy and also throughout the entire options process.

I trust that this website will be a useful and helpful guide that initiates and guides the process of making informed and appropriate choices for the students of Harris City Academy Crystal Palace. The website contains all the information that is needed in order to make an educated and informed decision about your future with us here at Harris. The option form, which is also available to download online, will be given to students on 8th March, following the parents evening, with a deadline for submission on Friday 16th March.

Key Dates

Friday 3rd February
On thematic day, time has been set aside to explain the process to Year 8 Students. They will also have the opportunity to meet with subject specialists to discuss the option choices available

Monday 6th February
We will be holding an Options Information Evening which will outline the curriculum and the choices available. Students and Parents will be invited to attend

Thursday 8th March
Our annual parents’ evening for Year 8 will also help students to review their progress in their chosen subjects to make a more informed choice. The options form will also be issued to students for completion

Friday 16th March
This is the deadline for the submission of the options form.

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