TOWER COLLEGE

8 Core Subjects for All Pupils : EDEXCEL English Language ( )and English Literature

: AQA Mathematics

: (EDEXCEL Physical Education )incorporates HSI

: IGCSE Information Technology

: AQA Religious Studies

: * AQA Spanish or French ( 1)Recommend

: , * AQA Physics Biology or Chemistry ( 1)Recommend

The options blocks will be designed around the pupils’ preferred choices. After this evening the pupils will submit their choices. From these, we will design the options blocks using the ‘best fit’ method.

We have 43 pupils in S3. We will design the option system so as to give the maximum number of pupils their preferred choices within the number of teachers and classrooms available. In other words, we have applied the ‘best fit’.

It is not possible for any school to design an option system that guarantees every pupil all their preferred choices. We are a small school and the options are governed to large extent by timetabling constraints (i.e. staff availability and accommodation).

We are aware that not all pupils will be able choose exactly what they would like. We are also aware of some pupils who would a find GCSE language extremely difficult. We have a good track record of meeting pupils’ and parents’ needs and of dealing sensitively and sensibly with people if a choice needs to be negotiated. If you still have concerns after having discussed matters with the subject teachers, please see Miss Oxley and Mr Taylor with individual queries.

Before completing the option form

Make sure you have found out all you need to know before making your final choices.

Read the options booklet, make use of this evening.

If you have any concerns after speaking to the subject teachers, please speak to either Mr Taylor or Miss Oxley.

Option 1 Option 2 Option 3 Option 4 Option 5

Please hand in the completed form either to Mr Taylor tonight; at registration on Monday, 25th January or by using the website option submission form.

The Options Reply Form can be found at the back of the booklet.

Please put your choices in order of preference (‘Option 1’ being your most preferred.

Where Pupils Can Go For Guidance Subject Teachers Form Tutor ( )Mrs Faulkner careers Parents Older pupils .Miss Oxley & Mr Taylor

How to choose

Do you enjoy the subject?

Are you good at it? Do you need it for a

career? Have you found out all

you can about it?

How not to choose

Because I like the teacher I have this year

Because my friends are doing it Because I’ve not done it before Because it seems to be taught in a

new way

Final Points Read the booklet carefully. Find out all you can about new subjects. Consult widely. Be aware of strengths and weaknesses. Make choices for now and for the future. No changes at beginning of year 10. Monday, 25th January deadline.

Thank you for listening.