Which GCSE options should I choose?
During years 10 and 11 you’ll study for GCSEs, you will have choices over which subjects you want to keep studying.
Need to know: First of all, there are some subjects that are compulsory at GCSE level. These are:
- English (English Literature and English Language or a single English GCSE)
- Maths
- Science (Combined Science or Individual Sciences)
Some useful online guides:
- Studential – Choosing your GCSE Options: www.studential.com/GCSEs/choosing-your-GCSE-subject-options
- Youth Employment UK – Choosing GCSE options – 19 questions to ask yourself: www.youthemployment.org.uk/choosing-gcse-options-19-questions-ask
- BBC Bitesize – Everything you need to know about choosing your GCSE subjects: www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/articles/zrjh92p
- Careerpilot – Your choices at 14: www.careerpilot.org.uk/information/your-choices-at-14/choosing-gcses-compulsory-and-optional
- Entry requirements for Apprenticeships in England: www.ucas.com/alternatives/apprenticeships/apprenticeships-england/entry-requirements-apprenticeships-england
- Which University can help you decide which other subjects are linked to the careers you are interested in
Still unsure?
- Ask teachers about what that subject is like at GCSE
- Which subjects do you enjoy?
- What are you good at?
- Talk to your family and see the CAREERS ADVISER at school
What is GCSE study like?
In most courses you will take a final exam at the end of year 11. You will be graded from 1 to 9, where 9 is the best grade you can achieve, 4 is a pass mark, and 5 is considered a strong pass.
Moving on to post-16 education
If you have not achieved a grade 4 in Maths or English you will have to re take them during your post 16 study.
GCSE Science
Separate science GCSEs – you will get a grade from 9 to 1 in each subject.
Combined Science – incorporates content from Physics, Chemistry and Biology and you will get an award that is worth two GCSEs which consist of two equal or adjacent grades from 9 to 1 (for example 9-9, 9-8, 8-8, 8-7, 7-7…to 1-1). If the two grades are different, the highest number will always be written on the left