By Mr Gardner, Senior Deputy Head – Teaching and Learning

At this point in the academic year, many parents will be supporting their daughters as they navigate some of the most important academic decisions of their school careers so far. For our Year 9 students at BGS, this means choosing GCSE options; for Year 8 students, it involves beginning to identify subjects that spark curiosity and play to developing strengths. While these choices can understandably feel significant, they are best approached as part of a longer educational journey rather than as definitive decisions that close doors too early.

The recent Year 8 Options Fayre was designed to help students begin these conversations with confidence. For many Year 8 students, this was the first opportunity to think carefully about why they enjoy certain subjects and how different disciplines develop distinct skills. By speaking directly with subject teachers, students gained insight into the nature of each subject and the ways it might support future GCSE study. We encourage parents to view this stage as an exploration: choosing subjects that engage and motivate students now helps them build the confidence and intellectual curiosity that underpin success later on.

The focus then shifted to Year 9 and GCSE choices. The Year 9 Options Fayre reflected the growing maturity of this cohort, with students asking thoughtful questions about subject content, assessment and progression. Teachers were able to explain how GCSE subjects support onward pathways into Sixth Form study and, in turn, higher education, apprenticeships and the world of work. While it is natural to consider future outcomes, we consistently see that students thrive most when their choices align with their interests and strengths, providing a solid platform for success at A level or IB and beyond.

Across both events, it was encouraging to see students articulating what they enjoy, where they feel confident and how they respond to challenges. These reflections are invaluable. Universities and employers increasingly value young people who are self-aware, resilient and genuinely engaged in their learning – qualities that are nurtured when students follow pathways that suit them.

Ultimately, subject choices at these stages are not about narrowing opportunities, but about laying strong foundations. At BGS, we are committed to working in partnership with parents to guide each student towards choices that enable her to flourish academically and personally, and that keep a wide range of future pathways open as she progresses through Sixth Form and into higher education or the workplace.