GCSE Options

At Cedar Mount Academy we believe that all students should study a broad and balanced curriculum. This is important as it prepares students for their next step into Sixth form, College or employment.

Choosing your Subjects

All students will study the following core subjects, so no decision is needed here:
English Language and English Literature (2 GCSEs)
Mathematics (1 GCSE)
Science (either Combined or Triple Science)
Physical Education (non-exam subject)
Personal Development (non-exam subject)

Students will then be able to choose subjects that support their future aspirations – this booklet will explain your options.

Essential advice about choosing GCSEs

1. Enjoyment: Choose subjects you think you will enjoy. This means asking teachers and others who know you well for advice.

2. Aptitude: Choose subjects which you think you will be good at – you will be more likely to enjoy them as well. Think about why you might enjoy particular subjects and how committed you feel – e.g. drama: have you enjoyed performing previously? Do you like working collaboratively? Are you committed enough to rehearse for GCSE performance work in the evenings and maybe at weekends?

3. Prospects: Think seriously about future ambitions. If you already have a university course in mind, check entry requirements for specific courses at university and work back from there. It might surprise you that GCSEs are part of a University entry requirements for example, to study Art at Glasgow School of Art you need a grade 7 in English. If you don’t know what career you would like ask to see the careers adviser in school to help you begin to plan your future pathway.

4. Balance: If you have no idea what you want to do in the future make sure that your options provide a broad and balanced programme that wont close any doors to your future pathways.

5. Independence: Don’t choose on the basis of what friends are doing or on the basis of favourite teachers. Make your own decisions. this is really important – they are your GCSEs!