GCSE Options
At RSD we understand that choosing a career path and which subjects to study at this early stage can be a daunting prospect. This is natural and nothing to worry about. The Careers staff, along with the Head of Year, the Heads of Key Stages 3 and 4 and the subject Heads of Department are on hand to advise. Parents are invited to a special parents evening to discuss the many and varied options open to our pupils. This page identifies the compulsory GCSE subjects along with the many options subjects on offer and allows you to view online or download the comprehensive Options Booklet.
GCSE Options
Year 11 & 12 Curriculum
There are three compulsory areas of study: English, Mathematics and Science. Some choice is possible within these areas. These choices can be summarised as follows.
English Language
All pupils will study GCSE English Language. Some pupils (about 55% of the year group) will study GCSE English Literature as well as English Language, sitting both examinations at the end of Year 12. Selection is based on performance in the Year 10 English examinations.
Mathematics
All pupils will study GCSE Mathematics. The first two classes will also study GCSE Further Mathematics in Year 12 (about 55% of the year group), having taken the GCSE Mathematics examination in Year 11. Remember that the normal entry requirement for each of A Level Mathematics and A Level Physics is a minimum of a grade B in Further Mathematics.
Science
All pupils will study one of the following options:
- Three sciences (pupils study Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences, also known as Triple Award Science),
- Two sciences (pupils study two of Biology, Chemistry and Physics as separate sciences),
- Double Award science (pupils study reduced content in Biology, Chemistry and Physics with the examinations resulting in two GCSEs graded as A*A*, A*A, AA, AB, BB, etc.)
Pupils taking Double Award Science or two separate sciences will choose four further subjects from the options below. Those taking three sciences will choose three further subjects. All pupils take non examination R.E., Learning for Life and Work, P.E. and Games.
Pupils who do not study English Literature will take GCSE RE Short Course which is worth half a GCSE. Initially pupils have a free choice and the option blocks will be determined in order to satisfy as many pupils as possible.
The Options Booklet expands greatly on the information on this page and gives details of subjects which may not be very familiar to parents or pupils, including the provision for Double Award Science.
Art & Design
HoD: Mrs M.E. CLINGAN
A good Art and Design education develops the intellect, heightens aesthetic sensibility, stimulates creative ability and enriches our lives.
Chemistry
HoD: Mrs R. L. HAMPTON
Chemistry is the study of matter and energy and the interaction between them.
Further Mathematics
HoD: Mr G.R. BLACK
Further Mathematics is a GCSE qualification which both broadens and deepens the knowledge of mathematical principals.
Physics
HoD: Mrs W. CHAMBERS
Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries. A physics qualification opens the doors to all sorts of jobs and courses.
Religious Studies
HoD: Ms A.M. PRESCOTT
Developing pupils’ knowledge and understanding of religion, religious beliefs, practices, language and traditions and their influence on individuals, communities, societies and cultures.
Digital Technology (Multimedia)
HoD: Mr K.D. McGUINNESS
GCSE Digital Technology aims to prepare pupils to cope with the increased dependence on computer systems in our society.
Biology
HoD: Mr R.E. CHAMBERS
It encourages learners to appreciate the value of Science in their lives and in the wider world around them
Computer Science
HoD: Mr K.D. McGUINNESS
Computer technology continues to advance rapidly and impacts every area of our daily lives.
English Literature
HoD: Mrs S.J. JACKSON
English Literature provides an excellent basis for studying at Advanced Level as it promotes careful reading and teaches essay writing skills.
Geography
HoD: Miss H. MONTGOMERY
By studying Geography you will gain an awareness of your own responsibilities and how you can contribute to a future that is sustainable and inclusive.
Music
HoD: Mr S.J. CUDDY
Music is an important part of the education of a well-rounded pupil, disciplines learnt here help in all other subjects.
Science (Double Award Unitised)
HoD: Miss D. McCOMBE
Double Award Science allows pupils to study all the Sciences but to a lesser extent than completing the separate Sciences.
Business Studies
HoD: Mrs A.R. STRAGHAN
Great things in business are never done by one person. They’re done by a team of people.
Technology & Design
HoD: Mr N.J. CANNING
Design and Technology allows you to learn about Systems and Control.
Food and Nutrition
HoD: Mrs P. McMULLAN
Opportunity to further develop your nutritional and health knowledge, consumer skills and food safety expertise.
History
HoD: Mr P.S. KERR
Someone once said that we should study History so that we can watch the television news with understanding.
Physical Education
HoD: Mr G McClintock & Mrs D Robb/Miss S Colga
Physical Education is all about developing a healthy, active approach to life, it’s designed to foster enjoyable participation in exercise and training.
Modern Foreign Languages
HoD: Mr P.G. MOORE
“If you talk to a man in a language he understands, that goes to his head. If you talk to him in his own language, that goes to his heart”
Please note that, while every effort is made to accommodate pupil preferences, the School reserves the right to determine the final selection regarding allocation to any subject or class. In exceptional cases this may include reference to the professional judgement of teachers.
