SUCCESS FOR ALL

Choosing Key Stage 4 options is an important milestone for our Year 9 pupils as they begin to shape their learning pathway for Years 10 and 11. We are committed to supporting pupils and families at every stage of this process so that choices are informed, thoughtful and aligned with each pupil’s strengths, interests and future aspirations.

 

 

How the Options Process Works

All pupils will follow a broad and balanced curriculum at Key Stage 4. As part of the options process:

• All pupils must choose one humanities subject: Geography or History.

• Pupils must then select one subject from each of the option lists below.

 

Option A

Urdu

Spanish

Art

Computer Science

Sports Studies

Enterprise

RE

Photography

Health and Social Care

Music

Design Technology

 

Option B

Sports Studies

Digital IT

Drama

Hospitality and Catering

Art

Enterprise

Health and Social Care

Hair and Beauty

Dance

RE

Separate Science

 

This structure ensures that pupils continue to access a wide range of subjects while also allowing them to personalise their curriculum.

 

Supporting Informed Choices

We aim to offer as much guidance and support as possible so that pupils and parents/carers feel confident in the decisions being made. Support includes:

• Clear information about each subject and how it is assessed

• Opportunities to speak directly with subject teachers

• Discussions about strengths, interests and future pathways

• Individual guidance from form tutors and pastoral staff

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We strongly encourage families to engage fully with the events and opportunities outlined below, as these are designed to help pupils make the most informed choices possible.

 

Key Dates for Parents and Pupils - 2026

In-Person Options Information Evening

Thursday 12th March – please arrive by 4:00pm

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This event will outline the options process and provide an overview of the subjects available. After the presentation, pupils and parents/carers will have the opportunity to speak with teachers from each subject area.

 

Online Parents’ Evening

Tuesday 17th March

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This online event provides the opportunity to discuss your child’s progress with subject teachers via video call. Appointment bookings open on 27th February.

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Bookings can be made via smithillsschool.schoolcloud.co.uk

 

Additional guidance can be found here (Parents' Evenings | smithills-school)

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Options Choices Released

Wednesday 18th March

The options form can be accessed through the following link (school login required).

https://forms.office.com/e/hSamfUF203

 

Please note the link will be active from 17:00 on Wednesday 18th March.

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Options Submission Window

Pupils can submit their choices between 18th March and 1st April.

Please note that some subjects may be oversubscribed. Where this occurs, places will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. Please consider carefully your reserve option.

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We are passionate about learning and believe that working closely with parents and carers is key to pupil success. With the right support and guidance, we are confident that every pupil can choose a pathway that enables them to achieve – or exceed – their personal and academic potential.

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If you have any questions about the options process, please do not hesitate to contact the school.

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Year 9 Options Booklet

Click on the image below to download a digital copy of the booklet.​​​​