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As part of BISP’s Wellbeing Programme and Academic Pathways guidance, our recent Subject Selection Fair provided students and parents with a valuable opportunity to explore the range of subjects and pathways available to them. This event allowed students to connect with subject teachers, deepen their understanding of their options, and make informed choices that align with their strengths, interests, and future goals.

Exploring IGCSE Options

Year 9 students, along with a number of parents, attended a session in the auditorium to learn more about the Year 10 IGCSE options. They discovered which subjects they could select from various blocks to create their IGCSE programme, which typically includes 7 to 11 IGCSEs. These subject blocks were organised based on recent student preferences collected via a Google Form. While it isn’t possible to offer every subject combination, most preferences are accommodated to ensure a balanced selection of subjects that prepares students well for the future.

During the session, students were given guidance on how to make thoughtful subject choices:

• Follow your strengths and passions.
• Seek advice from teachers and our University Counsellors.
• Keep your programme broad and balanced to maintain future options.
• Consider subjects you may want to study later.
• Take into account any other extracurricular commitments.

Students were also advised on what to avoid when selecting their options, such as choosing a subject because friends are taking it or basing their choice on a specific teacher, as teachers may vary from year to year. Armed with a booklet of key questions to ask, students eagerly visited different subject booths to learn more.

Pathways for Senior School Graduation

Year 11 students and parents attended a talk focused on the graduation pathways available in the Senior School. Students were introduced to options including the IB Diploma Programme, IB Courses, and the BTEC International Level 3 Extended Diploma in Sport. The talk highlighted the importance of selecting a pathway that matches each student’s individual strengths and goals, emphasising how these decisions are critical to achieving academic success.

Students were introduced to the six IB subject groups from which they must select subjects as part of the IB Diploma. They were encouraged to indicate their initial pathway preference and intended subject choices, helping them make informed decisions as they consider their options. Additionally, students were introduced to the university counselling team, Amy Pothong and Phil Tucker, who will support them with subject selection and planning for post-BISP pathways. Individual meetings to discuss each student’s chosen pathway and future aspirations will be held in January and February, ensuring they feel prepared for their next steps.

Understanding the BTEC Sport Programme

The Subject Selection Fair also included a presentation on the BTEC International Level 3 in Sport for Year 11 students and parents, providing insight into the structure of the qualification and how it is delivered at BISP.

Key points for students and parents included:

• No prerequisites: Students do not need to have studied IGCSE PE to join the BTEC Sport course.
• Assessment differences: Unlike IGCSE PE, which includes 50% practical assessment, the BTEC Sport course includes a practical unit but does not assess students on sports performance. Instead, it focuses on students’ knowledge and understanding of rules and tactics in both individual and team sports, with the practical component making up only 5% of the course.
• Coursework-focused: The programme is 100% coursework-based, allowing flexibility in deadlines to align with the school calendar and sporting commitments.
• Interest in sport: Although prior experience isn’t required, a genuine interest in sport or the fitness industry is beneficial, as the programme covers a broad range of units with real-world applications in sport.

Students and parents appreciated the chance to understand the BTEC qualification better and were encouraged to reach out via email or stop by the PE office if they have further questions.

A Supportive Environment for Decision-Making

The BISP Subject Selection Fair provided a valuable opportunity for students to explore academic options and make informed choices for their future. Through conversations, interactive sessions, and informative presentations, students left with a greater sense of confidence and excitement about their academic journeys.

This event is one of the ways BISP continues to support students in making decisions that align with their strengths, interests, and aspirations, guiding them towards a fulfilling academic path.