Your choices at 13+ at the first really big decision you have to make about what to study. This is where you are able to choose which subjects you want to continue and which you will drop. Most subjects will be offered as GCSEs but there may also be the opportunity to study in different way, such as BTEC courses which have practical elements and are assessed by coursework. There are lots of people who can help you with these decisions but the information here will help you get started.

► Your Choices at 13+

Choosing your options is the first ‘Key Decision’ points in your studies. In most schools in County Durham you will be able to choose from some of the four learning pathways (although Diplomas and Young Apprenticeships may only be offered in some subject in a small number of schools). Please see the diagram click here....

These are:

► GCSE's
► Diploma (Foundation or Higher)
► Foundation Learning
► Young Apprenticeships

* BTEC subjects may be offered in the GCSE and Foundation Learning Pathways.

Choosing qualifications in Year 9 gives you the chance to:

► choose courses and subjects that match your interests, abilities and talents
► choose courses that will help you prepare for your chosen career
► take new subjects
► learn in a different way
► build upon your strengths and achieve success in the future.

► Your Choices

Whichever pathway you take the compulsory subjects are:

► English, Mathematics, Science* & Information and Communication Technology

Do you know what your school offers? These are other subjects that you must study, but don’t usually have an exam in, eg:

► Careers Education
► Physical Education
► Religious Studies
► Health and Relationships
► Work Related Learning

* Science is not compulsory if you take a Diploma

► People who can help you DECIDE

► Connexions Personal Adviser
► Careers Co-ordinator
► Form teacher/tutor
► Subject teachers
► Head of year