Up until the end of Year 9, you and your friends will have studied the same subjects. But during Year 9 you will be asked to choose what to study in years 10 and 11.

Choosing your subjects represents the first important decision you will make about your own education and future. You may have no idea what you want to do for a career, or already think you know, but choosing a good balance of courses is important as it keeps your options open for when you do decide or in case you change your mind.

Subjects

All students have to study English, Maths, Science, Technology and a Modern Foreign Language. In addition, you can choose a range of other GCSE subjects and in some schools you can also choose to do a vocational course such as a GNVQ. In some cases, students may be offered work-related activities instead of part of the national curriculum (but not instead of the national curriculum).

When choosing your subjects you need to think about what you are good at and what you enjoy. Everyone should be aiming for the best results they can achieve. The best advice is to choose a range of subjects that is well balanced - in other words, do not specialise too early as this could affect your job choices in the future.
For details of what is on offer in your school look at your school's subject option book.

If you need further help…

Attend your school's option evening.
This is an ideal opportunity to talk to subject teachers about the subjects on offer and to make sure they are right for you.

Talk to your parents, guardians or carers.
They know what you are good at, what you like and dislike and what you are like as a person. You could also talk to friends and other family members.

Read your "Which Way Now?" booklet.
Also available on-line is the Which Way Now? booklet, see the link below. This tells you about your Year 9 options and has information on the different subjects on offer. It also has a jobfile, which gives brief details on many careers and the qualifications needed to get into them.

Use your school's career library.
Attend the Year 9 Family Evenings organised for you and your family at your local Connexions Centre in Cumbria. These usually take place in February or March. Further details will be sent to you nearer the time.

Surf the Internet for careers information.

It's your future, so you will need to choose options that are right for you.

Remember, it's your choice!