St. Bede’s Year 9 Options: Key Stage 4 Overview
At St. Bede’s, the Year 9 Options process marks an important milestone where students begin shaping their learning journey for Key Stage 4. Our curriculum is designed to provide breadth, balance, and pathways that support every learner to achieve their best.
Core Curriculum (studied by all students)
All pupils study the following compulsory subjects in Years 10 and 11:
- Religious Studies
- English Language & English Literature
- Mathematics
- Science (Combined Science or Triple Science, depending on suitability)
- Core PE
- PSHE
These subjects ensure that every student receives a strong, broad foundation for further study and future careers.
Two Pathways: Route 1 and Route 2
Students follow one of two pathways, based on their progress in Key Stage 3 and teacher guidance. Click the links below to access the booklets:
Route 1 – Modern Foreign Language Pathway
This pathway includes:
- A Modern Foreign Language (Spanish)
- A Humanities subject (History or Geography)
Students then select an additional option from a wide range of GCSE or vocational subjects.
Route 1 is a strong, traditional academic pathway valued highly by colleges, sixth forms, and universities. It supports students aiming for the EBacc suite of qualifications.
Route 2 – Humanities Pathway
This pathway is suited to students who may benefit from a broader curriculum without a compulsory language.
It includes:
- A Humanities subject (History or Geography)
- Two further choices from GCSE or vocational subjects
Route 2 offers flexibility, supports different learning styles, and reduces the examination load for some students.
Types of Qualifications Available
GCSE Subjects
These are assessed mainly by final exam in Year 11 and may include coursework depending on the subject.
Examples include:
- History
- Geography
- Art & Design
- Photography
- Business Studies
- Design & Technology
- Computer Science
- Music
Vocational Courses (e.g., BTEC, Cambridge National, WJEC Awards)
These courses:
- Are equivalent to one GCSE
- Include a larger coursework component
- Have fewer high‑pressure final exams
- Are valued by colleges and employers
Subjects include:
- Health & Social Care
- Sport
- Digital Information Technology
- Hospitality & Catering
How Students Make Their Choices
Students select subjects from option blocks according to their assigned route. They will choose:
- One Humanities subject (History or Geography)
- Additional GCSE or vocational subjects depending on their route
Where necessary, students list a first and second choice within an option block. While the school aims to meet all first choices, second choices may be used if groups are oversubscribed or undersubscribed.
Support for Students and Families
Throughout the process, students receive:
- Guidance from teachers and tutors
- Careers education and future pathways advice
- An Options Information Evening and detailed booklets
- Opportunities to discuss choices at home
The aim is for every student to select courses that suit their interests, strengths, and long‑term aspirations.
Our Commitment
We want students to enter Key Stage 4 feeling confident, motivated, and supported. The options process is designed to ensure every child has:
- A balanced curriculum
- Opportunities for success
- Pathways that keep future routes open
At St. Bede’s, we encourage students to choose subjects they enjoy, find rewarding, and will commit to over the next two years.