The Pathways Process - moving from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4

Some subjects are compulsory - the Government says that all students must take them. Other subjects are “Entitlements” - the Government says that students must be able to choose a subject in that area if they so wish. Not all subjects are suitable to all students. Whether or not a pupil likes and/or enjoys a subject is important, as is their ability or potential to do well in that subject. Deciding which subjects your child can or should take can be difficult.

We can help you with this. We have a wealth of information about your child. The Student Progress Leader for Year 9 meets with a number of other teachers to consider every child in the year group. We also speak to your child to ask to ask him/her what sort of subjects he/she would like to do from September, and what his/her career aspirations may be. Using this information we will help guide your child towards what, in our professional judgment, would be the most appropriate combination of courses for your child to study at Key Stage 4.

Below you will find details of both the compulsory examined subjects your child must take and a range of subjects for your child to choose from. Your child will study THREE of these subjects. The Pathways Form shows the choice that students need to make - one BLUE subject and two GREEN subjects. We also ask you to nominate reserve choices in case we are unable to place students in their first choices.

The core consists of compulsory subjects that all students must follow. There is no choice.

All students follow a core of:

  • English
  • Mathematics
  • Science
  • Physical Education
  • Religious Education

Mathematics, Science, English Language and English Literature are taught as separate lessons with formal assessment leading to GCSEs in these subjects.

Physical Education and Religious Education are also delivered in the core but as non-examined courses. Students who wish to obtain a formal qualification in Physical Education can opt to choose the GCSE course as part of their entitlement choices.

During their two-year Key Stage 4 course all students have curriculum time for:

  • Citizenship
  • Careers Education
  • Sex Education
  • Enrichment Experience

British Values and what it means to be British is explored and discussed as part of this curriculum time.

Please complete the Pathways Form with your child stating one blue option and two green options. Remember to also nominate your reserve choices.

ACHS Pathways Form 2020-2022

Our Key Stage 4 Booklet contains all of the curriculum information for current Year 10 students. Please contact us if you require a printed copy.

ACHS Y10 Curriculum Core Examined 2020 - 2022

ACHS Y10 Curriculum Core Non Examined 2020 - 2022

ACHS Y10 Curriculum Optional Subjects 2020 - 2022

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