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
For information on the Options process, please read the guide which can be downloaded below. The accompanying letter can also be downloaded here. If you need any further information, please contact Assistant Head, Mrs Whitford by emailing rwhitford@littleheath.org.uk or contact the Head of Year 8, Mrs Tidbury, by emailing ntidbury@littleheath.org.uk.
Below is the timescale for this year's Options process:
| Date | Event |
|---|---|
| Monday 19 February 2024 | Assembly An Introduction to the Options Process Assembly for Year 8 delivered by Mrs Whitford and Mr Coulson |
| Tuesday 20 February 2024 | 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 Please complete this short form to confirm your attendance. |
| Friday 23 February 2024 | Options Information Booklet The LHS Options booklet will be sent home electronically. It will also be posted on the website and on Satchel One. This contains details of all the courses that are offered, and how the profiles are identified. This will be sent out together with a letter confirming the profile that each student will be following |
| W/c 26 February 2024 onwards | 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 |
| W/c 4 March 2024 onwards | 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) |
| W/c 11 March - 22 March 2024 | Applications These will be completed online. Details of this will be sent out nearer the time. Deadline: Monday 25 March |
| W/c 18 March 2024 onwards | 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 |
| W/c 15 April 2024 | Follow up conversations and Quality Assurance |
| By end April/Early May 2024 | Confirmation of GCSE course places Students will receive written confirmation of their course choices at the end of the process |