Curriculum Choices
Alongside the core curriculum, students have the opportunity to personalise their learning by making choices that reflect their interests, strengths, and future aspirations. Whilst we try to accommodate individual choices as much as possible, we must also ensure the timetable works effectively in terms of class sizes, staffing and overall efficiency. For this reason, it is important that students choose their reserve choices carefully, as these may be needed if first choices cannot be allocated.
Choice 1
Geography or History
Students must select one of these subjects as part of their core curriculum.
Those who wish to study both subjects can choose the second subject as one of their option subjects.
Choice 2
GCSE in a Modern Foreign Language
or a Vocational Qualification
The majority of students will continue with the language they commenced in Year 7 and complete a GCSE in French / German / Spanish.
Students can express a preference for a vocational qualification instead of a GCSE in a language. We offer vocational qualifications in Hospitality and Catering, Sport, and Child Development. These courses have a different style of assessment and are ideal for students who have a clear interest in specific careers.
A GCSE (General Certificate of Secondary Education) is primarily an exam-based qualification, which may include some coursework or practical work, depending upon the subject. The grade scale for GCSEs ranges from 1 to 9, with 9 being the highest. Vocational qualifications include BTECs and Level 1 / 2 Certificates. The final qualification is mainly based on coursework, which takes place throughout the course, but all vocational courses also feature an examined element. Students will complete these vocational qualifications at Level 2 and will be graded as: Level 2 Pass / Level 2 Merit / Level 2 Distinction / Level 2 Distinction*.
All Level 2 grades have a GCSE equivalent and can lead to further study, apprenticeships or employment.
Tudor Grange Academy Solihull recognises a Level 2 Distinction as equivalent to a 6 at GCSE for the purpose of our sixth form entry criteria.
Choice 3
Science Trilogy or Separate Sciences
Students need to make a choice about which Science course to study: Science Trilogy or Separate Sciences.
Both courses cover all three Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and both routes enable the study of Science at A level. Science Trilogy course leads to 2 GCSE qualifications, while Separate Sciences leads to three GCSE qualifications, offering greater depth in each subject.
See further information on the Science pages in the booklet.
Choice 4
Option Subjects
Students following the Science Trilogy route will study TWO additional GCSE options, while those doing Separate Sciences will study ONE additional GCSE option.