Frequently Asked Questions
When does the process start?
Students will attend an assembly to launch the options process on 8th March 2022. Students will receive an options booklet which will also be available on the website. A timeline of the options process is available on the website click here.
Which subjects are core (compulsory) and which are option subjects (optional)?
Mathematics, English, and science are compulsory for all students which makes up the core. Physical Education and Religion and world views will also be compulsory. These subjects will not appear on the options preference form. The three remaining subjects are optional, although all students will study either geography or history. We also strongly encourage students to take a language.
Why is it important for students to select the right option preferences?
It is vitally important that students are offered a selection of courses that suit their academic profile and interests so that they have access to the widest selection of opportunities beyond Shoreham Academy. We review all students’ preferences and want to make sure that they reflect the high levels of ambition we have for them.
Do all students need to study languages?
Most students at Shoreham Academy will choose to study languages because of the positive difference it makes with next steps. This is reinforced by past students who tell us that studying a language has supported their applications to both university and apprenticeships. Unlike some schools locally we do not insist that all students take a language because this might not be the most suitable subject choice for them.
Is it possible to change option preference?
We are keen to ensure that the options selected for each student are suitable for their academic profile so that they have access to the highest of aspirations and opportunities in terms of further education. We will be reviewing all students’ preferences to ensure that they are choosing options that enable them to achieve their potential. However, should an option be unsuitable, an option change can be requested by writing to the principal detailing the nature of the problem.
What if students get to year 10 and don’t like a subject?
We will consider potential changes within a subject within the first two weeks of the Autumn term, however this is rare and to be discouraged as groups will be established, changes may not be possible and we do not want students to miss learning.
How will the options evening be run this year?
This year’s options evening will be on-site at Shoreham Academy. A great deal of the options evening involves gathering information about each of the courses being offered, it is important for you and your child to speak with each subject teacher so they can answer questions. These, alongside more general information and advice, will be available on the academy website on Wednesday 9th March.
When do students decide their option preferences?
Option choices will be made electronically via Microsoft forms. The deadline for completing the form will be Friday 18th March 2022. Please note that Options preferences must be agreed by parents/carers before submission. Student preferences could lead to a conversation to refine and confirm option preferences with a member of the Shoreham Academy staff. We will share final options with students in May 2022.
Will students definitely get the subjects they have selected?
The vast majority of students will be able to study their subject preferences. However, there are instances where this is not possible, for example if a subject has too few students to form a class. For this reason, we ask that students also choose a back-up subject or additional preferences. If it is necessary to use the back-up subject, this will be discussed with the student as soon as possible before any decision is made. This is done on an individual basis.
What happens if students make a mistake when completing the on-line form?
Students should e-mail carin.claesson-goom@shoreham-academy.org but our advice is to take care when completing the form to avoid this happening.
Where can students get help?
We encourage students to discuss their preferences with parents or carers, teachers, mentors, ILS (Inclusion Learning Support) and their pastoral team who can offer support regarding students’ option preferences. In addition, Mr Felton, Miss Joyce and Mrs Claesson are all available for advice and guidance related to the options process. Miss Silverman is also available for progression and careers advice.
Making the Preference Decision
The options process is designed to help students narrow their preferred subjects so that they can ultimately make the correct choices. They can use the options evening and provided booklet (published w/b 7th March) to help them learn about the subjects on offer. They can also contact their subject teachers via email to discuss with them whether they think they would be suitable to study their courses.
Students should aim to choose subjects that they:
- Like
- Are good at
- Are particularly interested in
- Will help them in the general career area that they are interested in
- Provide them wider options and experiences in the future
They should not choose subjects because:
- They like the teacher – as they may have a different one next year.
- Their friends have chosen it - as they may be in a different group.
We strongly recommend that students are fully informed before making this important decision and encourage them to use all available support resources and ask for help if they need it.