At Regents Park, students begin their KS4 journey in Year 10. They start GCSE and other KS4 courses, beginning to shape the curriculum they wish to study at Regents Park and beyond. To avoid a narrowing of the curriculum, the majority of students will continue with either Geography or History and they will also take RE up to GCSE. RE is central to our Respect ethos and develops understanding and tolerance of others, crucial for our varied demographic. These subjects are in addition to the core subjects of English, Maths and Science. More able linguists are encouraged to continue their language studies in either French or Spanish and more able scientists are encouraged to opt for Separate Sciences. Students who speak a home language other than English can also take a GCSE in that language.
In addition to their academic learning, all students study personal, social and health education (PSHE) and have core PE within their timetabled week – both of these are non-examined subjects.
The Options Process is outlined below:
As part of the Careers Day, Year 8 students get head start by experiencing a taster lesson in a KS4 subject of their choice. Then in Year 9 they are given the chance to experience further taster lessons and this helps to inform their decisions about KS4 subjects.
In the Spring Term, Year 9 students complete an ‘expression of interest’ form. This allows us to see which subjects are popular and begin to shape our formal offer. It also encourages students to start thinking and talking about their choices with other students, teachers and of course family.
A formal Year 9 KS4 Options Evening for students and parents takes place in the spring term and is an important opportunity for students to find out more about the subjects they are interested in. A presentation will explain the process and give general information before students are encouraged to speak to Curriculum Leaders and / or teachers about potential KS4 choices, as well as learning more about the core subjects.
Following on from this, all Year 9 students will meet with a key member of staff from the ‘Options Team’ to discuss their options. The team collaborates to ensure students are given the best guidance and members usually include PSHE and Careers Coordinators, Head of Year, SENDCO and the Deputy Headteacher. SEND students, especially those with EHCPs, will have additional support from the SEND team, including LSAs and their key worker. They may also liaise with parents to discuss appropriate KS4 provision and any alternate pathways.
Once choices are made, parents need to confirm students’ options. This will be done using SIMs Parent App.
Finally, towards the end of the academic year, students will ‘Step up to KS4’, where they will have formal taster lessons to check they have chosen the correct KS4 subject. In Year 10 there is a two-week window where parents can request a change of option if their child feels they have made the wrong decision. Any set changes are dependent on class sizes and places available.