The Options Process at The Dukeries Academy
Student and Parent Information
You have reached a pivotal stage in your education and will shortly be asked to make decisions that will affect your career pathway and the route into further education or training.
The booklet below will give you information to help you make your choice of subjects at the Dukeries Academy.
The beginning of your career, and early prospects, may be affected by what you choose, as well as how you succeed, so the decision you make is an extremely important one.
Each one of you will have his or her own reasons for whatever choice you make and there is no golden rule that will fit everyone. There is no need to make any career decisions yet but to make sure you choose a well-balanced selection of courses that will keep doors open for you.
It is important to be aware of other things that might influence your choice. Choosing a subject or not because of a particular teacher or to be with your friends are not good reasons for picking an option.
You will choose 4 option subjects as well as core English, Maths Science and PE.
In the booklet below there are brief outlines of the subjects you may choose. You may want to know more about some subjects and should not be afraid to ask. Staff are accustomed to students asking questions about their subjects and your tutor will always help find details for you.
In Brief… A Wise Choice Is…
- One that ensures a broad range of education without too much emphasis on one area
- One that takes account of special talents and strengths
- One that takes account of career and higher education requirements
We strongly recommend that those considering Sixth Form, Further Education or are a talented language student (those in sets 1 and 2) should follow the English Baccalaureate. The English Baccalaureate is made up of English, Maths, History or Geography, the Sciences and a language.
How to Choose the Right Course
- Read the booklet very carefully and talk to a variety of people so that you can make well-informed choices. Talk to your parent or carer, who will help you identify your interests and strengths.
- Talk to your tutor who will have knowledge about the various subjects, will be working with you on making decisions and will have information about your ability in different subjects.
- Talk to your subject teachers who will be able to give you more details about the courses, will be able to show you examples of examination work and give you an assessment of the standard of your own work.
- Talk to students in Years 10 and 11 who are already studying the courses which interest you. They will be able to give you some ideas about the type of work they have been doing on the various courses.
- Talk to staff who will be able to give you information about qualifications for particular careers.
- Think about what will give you satisfaction and success at the end of Year 11.
