Year 8 Options

The Options process begins for Year 8 students in Term 3. We have put a framework in place to ensure that all students opt for subjects that will enable them to study a broad and balanced curriculum which also reflects their own personal interests, abilities, aptitudes and talents. This will leave them with lots of opportunities open to them when they leave school.

They will participate in a range of activities to support them in making their decisions, including advice from our Careers Team.

Choosing a suitable Key Stage 4 curriculum is all part of the process of planning for future careers or studies. Students will be asked about this during their options interview. Our Career's Lead, Mrs Wooller, is available to answer any queries and offer advice. Her email address is ewooller@littleheath.org.uk

Below is the timescale for this year's Options process:

Date	Event
January 2026	Assembly An Introduction to the Options Process Assembly for Year 8
January 2026	Information Evening – 6pm in the Main Hall This will provide a more detailed explanation of the Options process, courses and pathways, and what this means for your child. You will have an opportunity to ask questions and find out more about the courses we offer. The presentation from last year's evening can be viewed here: Year 8 Options Information Evening for Parents 2025 - Presentation
End January/ Beg. February	Options Information Booklet The LHS Options booklet will be sent home electronically, with a letter confirming the pathway that each student will be following. It will also be available to download below and on Satchel One. This contains details of all the courses that are offered, and how pathways are identified.
Term 3	Tutor time activities to support the GCSE Options process This will include the opportunity to speak to HODs of the subjects which are offered as GCSE subjects, as well as students who currently study them. Students will also be offered support and guidance by their Form Tutor, to support them in making their choices.
Term 3	Taster activities Students will be invited to attend additional taster lessons in new subjects at GCSE (German, Spanish, Drama, Business Studies, Child Development, Leisure and Tourism, Citizenship, Media and Hospitality)
February 2026	Applications These will be completed online. Details of this will be sent out nearer the time.
March/April 2026	Options Interviews Each student will attend an individual Options Meeting with a member of the Pastoral or Curriculum Team. During these meetings, choices which have been made during the initial application process will be reviewed with students.
Term 5	Follow up conversations and Quality Assurance
Term 5	Confirmation of GCSE course places Students will receive written confirmation of their course choices at the end of the process.