Dear Parent/Carer,
Year 9 is an important year. Students have studied a broad curriculum at Key Stage 3, and now is the time when students have some options regarding their studies at Key Stage 4.
We have a comprehensive programme that will support you and your child in making their option choices, so that they are able to choose subjects that they enjoy and can be successful in.
To ensure all students continue to experience a rich and balanced curriculum that secures a strong academic foundation, there are core subjects all students will study at Key Stage 4: Religious Education, English, Mathematics, Science, and a humanities subject (Geography or History). Students will also continue with some core Physical Education, and they will continue to benefit from our PPD curriculum. Students will then have flexibility from a range of academic, vocational, and practical subjects. Students will be encouraged to consider which subjects they love and are flourishing in, as well as what they want to do in the future.
We will be holding an Options Evening on Thursday 19th February from 4pm until 6pm.
There will be two identical presentations about the process, one beginning at 4pm and the other at 5pm, representatives from departments to give you more information about the courses available to students, and careers advice will also be available.
Parents and carers play an important role in supporting our young people; we appreciate that there is a lot to consider. Staff will be available to help you before, during, and after the evening. Our 2026 Options Brochure is also available.
If you need to discuss your child’s options further, please email the school: ems-options@ems.bhcet.org.uk
With every good wish.
Yours sincerely,
Mr C Corcoran - Deputy Headteacher
Mr I Walker - Assistant Headteacher
