1. Year 9 Parents’ and Options Evening Wednesday 29 th January 2014

2. Compulsory Examined Subjects English LanguageEnglish Literature MathematicsScience A Modern Foreign Language Religious Education

3. Why is a Modern Foreign Language compulsory? Academically valued Proven to help develop literacy skills The world’s getting smaller! Part of the English Baccalaureate

4. The English Baccalaureate (EBacc.) First ‘awarded’ in 2011 Comprises GCSE passes (A*-C) in: Mathematics English Language Double or Triple Science A Modern Foreign Language A Humanity – History or Geography The EBacc is not certified 5+A*- C grades including Maths & English is not certified EBacc is real.

5. In 2013 what % of students achieved the English Baccalaureate? Nationally Gordon’s 19% 56% but 55% of students nationally achieved 5+A*-C grades

6. Should I choose a humanity just to get the English Baccalaureate? No is the simple answer.

7. What are the option subjects? Art & DesignGeography Business StudiesGerman Business First (BTEC)History ComputingICT DT – FoodMusic DT – GraphicsPhysical Education DT – Resistant MaterialsPhotography DramaSpanish French

8. Business Studies GCSE or BTEC? Business Studies GCSEBusiness First BTEC More academic More vocational Assessed through ‘controlled assessments’ and ‘examinations’ Assessed through ‘assignments’ undertaken in class and at home Better preparation for AS & A levels Better preparation for vocational post – 16 qualifications GCSE Business Studies = 1 subject BTEC First Certificate = 1 subject

9. Please note A subject will ‘run’ based on: - Student demand - Staffing

10. Shape Surrey Heath Area Partnership for Education Level 1 courses (GCSE grades D & below) offered in: Hairdressing Beauty Therapy Construction Motor Maintenance Catering Equine Studies Public Services Tomlinscote School & Sixth Form College Miss Wood has more details

11. What happens now? Read the Options Booklet Return your options form to Mrs Williams in the school office by Wednesday 26 th February