Choosing GCSE options is an exciting point in your child’s education. We want to ensure that you and your child are well-informed and empowered to make choices that ensure the best opportunities are available in the future.
There is a lot of information on hand and expert advice available from our teachers over the coming weeks that will ensure that you understand the pathways and subjects on offer. We will support you to make decisions that will maximise your child’s achievement and engagement as they move into the next stage of their studies.
Here at The City Academy, Hackney we know it is vital that parents/carers and the school work together to establish the best route for each student to achieve their potential. You have a key role in supporting your child as they make their options choices, providing support and encouragement as well as challenging them to set aspirational goals.
Our ethos is one of high expectations and high support. We are proud of our record of academic excellence. Equally, the importance that we place on creativity and the expressive subjects mean that our standards and achievement in technology, drama, music, art and physical education are exceptional. We also model and actively promote the broader personal development of students to adulthood and see those values as integral to our students’ success.
We look forward to working with you to support your child on the next stage of their journey at The City Academy, Hackney.
Anna Sarchet Principal
Pathways explained
At our school we have high expectations for all students. Achieving strong GCSE results is essential for progression to A-levels or other Level 3 courses. Many post-16 providers require at least a Grade 5 in English and maths by the end of year 11. Any student who does not achieve at least a Grade 4 will be required to resit these qualifications in sixth form or at college.
Pathways explained
There are four pathways available for students to follow at The City Academy, Hackney. A pathway will be recommended based on each student’s prior and current attainment. Each pathway is carefully designed to balance a strong academic core alongside breadth and student choice.
Year 9 Curriculum
All students in Year 9 will study these subjects
English
Maths
Science
Spanish or French
Geography
History
DT
PE
PHSCE/RE
Tutor time 5 periods 5 periods 5 periods 3 periods 2 periods 2 periods 2 periods 2 periods 1/2 periods 15 minutes every day
Students who are on the core pathway will also study
Art & Textiles Drama
Students who are on the academic pathway will also study
Early option
Creative rotation Art, Music, Drama, RE, Computing 2 from Art, Music, Drama 3 periods 1 period
Options Y8
Only students recommended the academic pathway will have to make an option choice in Year 8.
Students on the academic pathway will make the following choices:
• One early entry GCSE
• One reserve choice
• A creative rotation (2 subjects from Art, Music, & Drama)
Year 10 Curriculum
All students in year 10 and 11 will study these subjects
Students on the academic / extended pathway
• Their early entry option 3 periods
• One from each of 3 blocks (see page 8) 3 periods each
Students on the core pathway
• One choice from each of 3 blocks (see page 8) 3 periods each
Students on the foundation pathway
• King's Trust 3 periods
• One choice from block B & C 3 periods each
Options Year 9
All students must complete an option form
• One subject from each block
• One of French, Geography, History, Spanish
• One reserve
Pathway Options
Student Advice
Arvali Year 11
"Remember that the choices you make now will shape your future, so choose based on your own interests, not simply on what your friends decide to do."
Jamila Year 11
"You might want to choose your strongest subjects but it's better to pick ones you enjoy - you'll be more motivated over the next two years."
Yusef Year 11
"Don't avoid something because you think it sounds hard. If you enjoy it, you'll work hard at it."
Kingsley Year 11
"Choose a subject that you feel motivated to study or learn about, because you’ll naturally put much more effort into something that genuinely interests you."
Course Information
Art & Design: Fine Art
Exam board & course code:
OCR J171
Course information:
This is an exciting programme which will introduce you to many aspects of art.
You will create a portfolio of coursework that must demonstrate you have: made accurate drawings & studies of what you see, experimented with a wide range of materials, techniques & processes and developed skills & modified work as it progresses.
You will be introduced to a wide range of artists and techniques, including painting, sculpture, ceramics, printmaking, photoshop, photography and more.
The course is designed to focus on pupils strengths and coach them towards making personal and informed decisions within their work.
Taking Art GCSE can open the door to a wide range of careers within the creative industries, including graphic design, illustration, animation, fashion design, architecture, interior design, photography, film and set design, game design, advertising, marketing, art therapy, museum and gallery curation, product design, and fine art, as well as creative roles in media, publishing, digital content creation and branding.
How will I be graded?
• Portfolio - 60% coursework
• External set task - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Sally Mountain. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum contact her.
This course explores new technologies, computer systems, programming and coding. You will gain a real, in-depth understanding of how computer technology works; develop critical thinking, analysis and problem-solving skills.
There is a heavy emphasis on programming with Python 3; 50% of the course is about programming theory and application.
Students who have a keen interest in technology and solving problems do well in this course.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including technology, security, finance and AI.
It is recommended that students applying for this course should be in set one/two in maths.
How will I be graded?
•
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Abu Shahin. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level Computer Science
• BTEC L3 Information Technology
Higher education options:
• B Eng Software engineering degrees
• BSc Computer Science degrees
Drama
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 1DR0
Course information:
This course is a dynamic and engaging qualification that allows you to develop performance, creativity, and analytical skills. It is ideal for those interested in theatre, acting, and storytelling but also develops your confidence, teamwork and communication.
The course is divided into three key components: devising, performance, and written analysis. In the devising component, students create and perform their own original piece based on a stimulus, developing creative thinking and problem-solving abilities. The performance component involves acting in a scripted play, where students are assessed on their ability to interpret and bring characters to life. Lastly, the written exam evaluates their understanding of theatre, script analysis, and performance review, often including a live theatre evaluation.
Beyond the stage, drama prepares students for real-world success by fostering creativity, confidence, and communication and enhances skills valuable in many careers, including media, law, and education.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework (written and performance) - 40%
• Performance examination - 20%
• Written examination - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Christopher Thomas. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Music GCSE develops a broad range of musical skills through performing, composing, listening and understanding. Students must perform on their chosen instrument or voice, compose original music and study set works and unknown music to build listening and analytical skills and knowledge of reading music.
The course explores a wide variety of genres, including classical, popular, film, and world music, helping students understand how music is created in different styles and cultures.
Studying GCSE Music supports future careers such as: performer, composer, producer, sound engineer, teacher, or roles in the wider creative industries, while also developing transferable skills like teamwork, creativity and critical thinking.
How will I be graded?
• Performance coursework - 30%
• Composition coursework - 30%
• Listening and understanding exam - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Elizabeth Jones. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• BTEC Performing Arts
• A Level Music
• A Level Music Technology
Higher education options:
• Studying Music
• Music Technology
• Performing/Composing at University or Colleges
Religious Studies
Exam board & course code:
Edexcel 1RBO
Course information:
This course reflects the demands of a truly modern and evolving religious studies environment. The course deals with a range of moral, ethical and political dilemmas and what different religions have to say about these.
You will study the two major religions of Christianity and Islam.
You will develop analytical and critical thinking skills to enable you to present a wide range of well-informed and reasoned arguments.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including law, education and media and communication.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Elizabeth Sully. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Religious Studies
• A Level Humanities
• A Level Sociology
Higher education options:
• Philosophy degree
• Theology degree
• History degree
Art & Design: Textiles
Exam board & course code:
OCR J174
Course information:
You will create a portfolio of coursework that must demonstrate you have: made accurate drawings & studies of what you see, experimented with a wide range of materials, techniques & processes, and developed skills & modified work as it progresses.
You will be introduced to a wide range of artists and techniques and will work in one or more area(s) of textile design, such as: constructed textiles, digital textiles, dyed fabrics, printed fabrics, fashion design, installed textiles, soft furnishings, stitched and/or embellished textiles techniques.
You must demonstrate the ability to work creatively with processes and techniques appropriate to the chosen area(s) of study such as: weaving, surface printing (block, screen or digital), pattern making, pattern cutting, embroidery (machine or hand), knitting, batik, appliqué and collage.
Taking Art GCSE can open the door to a wide range of careers within the creative industries, including graphic design, illustration, animation, fashion design, architecture, interior design, photography, film and set design, game design, advertising, marketing, art therapy, museum and gallery curation, product design, and fine art, as well as creative roles in media, publishing, digital content creation and branding.
How will I be graded?
• Portfolio - 60%
• External set task - 40%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Art and Design
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Sally Mountain. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• Fashion
• Jewellery design
• Animation
Business Studies BTEC
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 603/1916/1
Course information:
This vocational course develops your knowledge and skills in researching, setting up, running and analysing small businesses. You will explore what makes enterprises successful and how entrepreneurs turn ideas into reality. Topics include entrepreneurial characteristics, market research, promotion, financial planning, and how businesses compete and operate. Learning is based on realistic business scenarios and case studies.
You will apply your understanding to real-world contexts, developing skills in analysis, evaluation and decision-making. Success on this course requires good attendance and a level of independent study and research. For the coursework you will independently investigate how businesses attract customers, manage finances and respond to challenges within the enterprise world.
Future careers: This course prepares you for careers such as marketing or social media manager, business analyst, accountant, events coordinator, or even becoming an entrepreneur.
How will I be graded?
• Internal assessment - 60%
• Examination - 40%
Grades: Pass/Merit/Distinction
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Hannah Williams. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• Level 3 BTEC Business Studies
• A-level Business Studies
• A-level Economics
• Accountancy degree
• Business Management degree
• Apprenticeships at degree level
Design & Technology
Exam board & course code: AQA 8552
Course information:
In GCSE Design and Technology you will develop creative design ideas in response to real-world problems, learning how to design for a specific target market through research, innovation and careful planning. You will explore a range of materials and their working properties, using sketching, technical drawing and CAD to communicate and refine your ideas. A central focus of the course is gaining a clear understanding of the tools, machines and specialist equipment used to manufacture products safely and accurately. You will apply this knowledge in the workshop, following health and safety procedures while developing practical skills and precision.
You will be required to produce a final outcome in the form of a working solution to a problem, demonstrating your ability to follow the iterative design process from brief to prototype. This qualification can lead to careers in product design, graphic design, engineering, architecture, fashion, manufacturing and other creative and technical industries.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 50%
• Examination - 50%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Kobina Christie. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Design and Technology: 3D Design
Higher education options:
• Architecture degree
• Engineering degree
English Language
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8700
Course information:
This course covers the functional elements of English as well as creative writing, and speaking and listening.
The study of English Language requires regular independent study from all students. This should amount to at least 1 ½ hours each week. This will take the form of reading, writing and research.
Students should be aware that most employers will expect prospective employees to have achieved at least a grade 5 in GCSE English Language.
A secure grasp of English Language will help you in any career. Attaining a higher grade can lead students into a wide range of careers including journalism, publishing and broadcasting.
How will I be Graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leaders for this subject are Holly Roberts and Imogen Harper-Donnelly. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact them.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level English Language
• A level English Literature
Higher education options:
• English Literature degree
• Law degree
• History degree
English Literature
Exam board & course code: AQA 8702
Course information:
We study: Shakespeare’s ‘Macbeth’, Dickens’ ‘A Christmas Carol’, the modern play ‘DNA’ by Dennis Kelly, as well as the ‘Worlds and Lives’ anthology, featuring a range of poets from the 19th century to modern day.
The study of English Literature requires regular independent study from all students. This should amount to at least 1 ½ hours each week.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including journalism, publishing and broadcasting.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level English Literature
Who to speak to:
The subject leaders for this subject are Holly Roberts and Imogen Harper-Donnelly. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact them.
Higher education options:
• English Literature degrees
• Law degrees
• History degrees
French
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8652
Course information:
Students develop their ability and ambition to communicate independently in speech and writing with speakers of the language and about subjects, which are meaningful and interesting.
French also builds students’ confidence and broadens their horizons, enabling them to step beyond familiar cultural boundaries, develop new ways of seeing the world, and better understand relationships between the foreign language and the English language.
Students will become familiar with aspects of the contexts and cultures of the countries and communities where the language is spoken. Assessment is set in the context of these three themes.
• Theme 1: People and lifestyle
• Theme 2: Popular culture
• Theme 3: Communication and the world around us
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including translation, international business and teaching.
How will I be Graded?
• Examination (reading, writing, listening and speaking) - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level French
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Katherine Moore. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• Modern Foreign Language degree
Geography
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8035
Course information:
In this course you will study:
• Living with the Physical Environment which includes, Rivers and Coasts, The Living World (including Hot Deserts and Malaysian Tropical Rainforest), Natural Hazards (including a case study on earthquakes in Chile and Nepal).
• Challenges in the Human Environment including Urban issues such as issues in Rio de Janeiro, Changing Economic World (including comparison of Nigeria and the UK economy) and Resources (including Water Resource Management).
• Issues Evaluation and Fieldwork which involves two day long field trips to the coast at Walton on the Naze and to Westfield, Stratford to conduct questionnaires and survey.
A career in Geography can include urban planners, environmental consultants, tackling global warming, teaching, international development and emergency planning.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Geography
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Sally Boultbee. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• Geography degree
• Geology degree
• Environmental Sciences degree
History
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 1H10
Course information:
GCSE History allows you to study a wide range of time periods whilst developing your understanding of why events in history have happened, how and why societies have changed over time, as well improve your ability to evaluate historical interpretations and primary sources.
You will cover a range of topics in the 20th century, including the American Civil Rights Movement, the Vietnam War, and the Cold War. Students will also look in depth at Elizabethan England and how Crime & Punishment have changed over 1,000 years in Britain.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers in law, civil service, journalism, teaching, and museums.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level History
• A-level Sociology
• A-level Government & Politics
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Carolyn Baker. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Higher education options:
• History degree
• Law degree
• Philosophy, Politics and Economics degree
Hospitality & Catering
Exam board & course code: EDUQAS WJEC 5409QA
Course information:
In this course, you will develop key skills in food preparation, cooking techniques and nutrition. You will learn about food safety and hygiene, making sure meals meet industry standards. The course covers menu planning, meal presentation and the science behind food, helping you understand how ingredients work together.
You will also explore the wider hospitality and catering industry, including customer service, business operations and career opportunities. Through practical tasks, you will build teamwork, organisation and time-management skills while gaining hands-on experience in a professional kitchen environment. The course introduces a range of industry roles, from chefs to restaurant managers, giving you insight into different career paths and the realities of working in a fast-paced setting.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including chef, hotel or restaurant manager, food technologist, nutritionist, events coordinator and roles within tourism and hospitality management.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 60%
• Written Examination - 40%
Grades: Pass/Merit/Distinction
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Shamsun Mazid. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Food and Nutrition
• Level 3 Hospitality & Catering
Higher education options:
• Food and Nutrition Management degrees
• Clinical Dietetics degree
Mathematics
Exam board & course code: Edexcel 1MA1
Course information:
Mathematics is a core subject at GCSE and plays an integral role in providing key skills needed in many different careers. It combines a logical approach with intellectual rigour that contribute to an ability to solve a wide variety of problems.
Attaining a high grade in Maths is an essential prerequisite or highly recommended for many career paths and university courses, including engineering, computer science, and even architecture.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Maths & Further Maths
• A Level Biology, Chemistry, Physics
• A Level Economics
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is In-Yong Hwang. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Higher education options:
• Maths degree
• Engineering degree
• Computer Science degree
• Economics degree
PE
Exam board & course code: AQA 8582
Course information:
There are strong links with science and students who enjoy science, especially biology, find PE very interesting. There are a wide range of topics covered which are assessed through two 75 minute exams. These include Applied anatomy and, Physiology Movement analysis, Physical training, Sports psychology, Sociocultural influences and Health, fitness and wellbeing.
The practical element is assessed by participation in three sports (one team sport, one individual sport and a third of your choice). This course would suit those who are competing in sport regularly, either in or out of school as well as those students who enjoy science.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including physiotherapy, personal training, coaching, teaching, strength & conditioning, sports science, nutritionist and sports psychologist.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 50%
• Written Examination - 50%
Grades: 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Kynan Ball. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level PE
• BTEC National Diploma sports
Higher education options:
• Exercise Science degrees
Science (Biology, Chemistry & Physics)
Exam board & course code:
AQA 8464, 8461, 8462, 8463
Course information:
The sciences develop your knowledge and understanding of the living, material and physical worlds. Each of the three sciences (biology, chemistry and physics) are taught separately.
Biology gives students the chance to gain a good understanding of human biology, organisms, evolution and the environment.
Chemistry enables students to explore the nature of substances and how they react together; how chemistry is used in industry and how our use of raw materials in fuels and manufacturing can affect the environment. Physics provides the chance to gain a good understanding of the use and transfer of energy, waves, radiation, space and the application of physics.
Practical skills are developed throughout the course and assessed as part of the end of course exams. Entry decisions will be made in year 10. Most students will be entered for combined science which counts as two GCSEs.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including medicine and dentistry, forensic science, scientific research and engineering.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades: 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Ruth Adams. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A-level Biology
• A-level Chemistry
• A-level Physics
Higher education options:
• Medicine degrees
• Engineering degrees
• Pharmaceuticals degrees
Sociology
Exam board & course code: AQA 8192
Course information:
In this course you will develop in-depth knowledge and understanding about our social world, and will question taken for granted assumptions about social groups and processes. You will look at how sociologists study and understand society’s structures, processes and issues.
Topics studied include families, education, crime, social hierarchies and research methods. Each of these is explored in the context of what they mean to those in different social classes, of different ethnicities and cultures, and different genders.
You will apply your knowledge of sociological ideas and theories to real world scenarios and current events, giving you a unique understanding of the world around us.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers: including law and criminal justice, social work, media and communications.
How will I be graded?
• Examination - 100%
Grades 9 - 1
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Elizabeth Sully. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact her.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A level Sociology
• A level History
• A level Religious Studies
• A level Geography
Higher education options:
• Sociology degrees
• Law degree
• Psychology degrees
Spanish
Exam board & course code: AQA 8692
Course information:
You will develop your ability and ambition to communicate independently in speech and writing with speakers of the language and about subjects, which are meaningful and interesting.
You will develop your confidence and broadens your horizons, enabling you to step beyond familiar cultural boundaries, develop new ways of seeing the world, and better understand relationships between the foreign language and the English language.
You will become familiar with aspects of the contexts and cultures of the countries and communities where the language is spoken. Assessment is set in the context of People and lifestyle, Popular culture, Communication and the world around us.
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including translation, international business and teaching.
The subject leader for this subject is Amanda Perez. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• A Level Spanish
Higher education options:
• Modern Foreign Language degree
• Combined degree courses which include a language
Cambridge National Sports Studies
Exam board & course code:
OCR Cambridge National J839
Course information:
This course suits those interested in sport and PE who prefer assignments rather than exams. There are three units of study:
● Contemporary issues in sport (written exam) – participation, values, implications of major events, governing bodies and technology in sport.
● Developing sporting skills (coursework) – includes performance, improving sport activities, organising and planning sports activities, leading and reviewing a planned sports activity.
● Optional unit - Sports and media or Increasing awareness of outdoor and adventurous activities (coursework).
Attaining a higher grade in this subject can lead students into a wide range of careers including coaching, sports management, leisure work, sports media, OAA teacher, sporting events worker & sport analysis.
How will I be graded?
• Coursework - 60%
• Examination - 40%
Grades: Pass/ Merit/ Distinction
Who to speak to:
The subject leader for this subject is Kynan Ball. If you have any questions regarding the curriculum please contact him.
Key Stage 5 course options:
• Level 3 courses in Sports Studies
Higher education options:
• Apprenticeships in Sports Studies
• University courses in Sports Studies
Online Options Form
Opens Tuesday 14th April | Closes Friday 24th April at 16:30
All year 9, and year 8 students on the academic pathway, will receive an emailed link to the form on Tuesday 14th April 2026.
• Your child should follow the emailed link to make their choices.
• Parents will then be asked to confirm they are happy with the options selected on MCAS.
Students will be informed of their final options in Summer 2.
• Further step by step guides are available on the website
• For any queries you can email gcse.options@thecityacademy.org
• If If you are unable to log into MCAS, please email communication@thecityacademy.org
