Thurston Community College

KS4 Options Guidance

We believe it is important that our students study qualifications, supported with high quality teaching, to ensure they can succeed and place themselves in the best position to move into further and higher education, employment and training.

As a student at Thurston Community College, you will take more responsibility for your education and your future.

Key Dates

Thursday 14 November 2024 - Year 9 Consultation Evening (virtual)

Wednesday 29 January 2025 - Year 9 Key Stage 4 Options assembly. 

Thursday 06 February 2025 - Key Stage 4 Options Evening. Students and staff will be available to talk about all the courses and pathways which we offer. There will be a general presentation at 18:15 in our auditorium and again at 19:00.

Friday 07 March 2025 - Deadline for Options Choices Form Submission.

Key Stage 4 Options Booklet

Key Stage 4 Options Booklet 2025

Qualifications at Key Stage 4

There will be two types of qualifications available to students:

  1. GCSE qualifications which are linear qualifications where the course is assessed in one or more exams at the end of the course; these may involve some NEA (non-examined assessment) or practical exams in Year 11. These courses are graded 9-1.
  2. Technical Awards such as Cambridge National courses that involve more assessment throughout the course. You may be required to complete NEA, practical exams and/or complete shorter exams during years 10 and 11. These courses are usually graded in terms of Distinction* (equivalent to GCSE 8/9), Distinction (GCSE 7), Merit (GCSE 6), Pass (GCSE 4/5).

Students will have the opportunity to take both types of qualification at Thurston Community College depending on their interests and future aspirations.

Where should I start?

It is important to talk to your parents, your tutor, your class teachers and other staff. Engage with assemblies, tutor time activities and attend our KS4 Options Evening on Thursday 6 February. You can also arrange a careers appointment with our Careers Advisor (Ms Johnson) for advice and guidance: careers@thurstoncollege.org