Third Year Options

At the end of second year [S2] pupils choose their courses for years 3 and 4. This decision will depend on their interests and career ambitions but will reflect their level of attainment over the previous two years.

The choice of courses will be discussed with parents and any subsequent change in it should only be made after consultation with the Depute Head Teacher of Second Year.

An information booklet with more details on the courses available will be issued to parents and pupils in Second Year.

Courses For Third And Fourth Year

Subjects are arranged in eight columns (see accompanying option form). All pupils take the subjects in Columns A, B, C, viz. English, Mathematics, Religious Education and Physical Education.

In addition, pupils choose one subject from each of columns, D, E, F, G, and H. At least one of those chosen must be a science subject.

The final course choice is made at the end of a programme of consultation involving pupils, parents and staff. Careers information forms are an important part of this programme. The whole programme for second year pupils normally takes place between January and April.

Most of the courses offered in S3 and S4 last for two years and lead to certification by the Scottish Qualifications Authority (SQA) at Standard Grade,

These courses are offered at three levels, Foundation, General and Credit match the ability of the pupil. Pupils may also opt to undertake a series of pre-vocational courses which will lead to certification by the SQA.

The curriculum offered conforms to national guidelines for pupils in S3 and S4 in Scottish schools. The subjects are arranged in columns as shown on the option sheet.

In order to maintain a balanced course all pupils should study:

• English
• Mathematics
• RE
• PE
• Social Subject (col D)
• Science Subject (col E)
• Creative & Aesthetic Subject (col F)
• Technological Subject (col G)
• One other subject (col H)