Secondary schools asking kids to drop GCSE subjects

30 replies

lililililililili · 24/09/2023 20:25

I have heard about this happening in a girls’ school nearby, wondered if it’s a common thing for schools to ask children to drop a 10th GCSE subject. Or not letting them choose one if the school deems child will not achieve good enough results. A tutor I know was not fond of that particular school for that reason.

Which schools are notorious for doing this? Should I look carefully and closely at the number of pupils vs grades reported? I would not want my child to be blocked by the school because DC will only get a 7 that is not great for the school.

We are in SW London.

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Foxesandsquirrels · 24/09/2023 20:36

Taking 8 or 9 is the norm. 10 is a lot. GCSEs are difficult, why would you want your child to suffer through one for 2/3 years if they weren't up to par with it?

LIZS · 24/09/2023 20:34

Sounds like hearsay. Not uncommon to choose more subjects in year9 then reduce though. Taking 8/9 is the norm.

Mumdiva99 · 24/09/2023 20:34

If a child is struggling then surely it is better to drop a subject and focus on the 'more important' ones. This does happen in schools sometimes. Usually as a coping mechanism. Don't criticise it until you've had a child who struggles.

A friends son dropped many to focus on Math, English and a couple of others. He had extra support at school during the lessons he had dropped.

mondaytosunday · 24/09/2023 20:31

You are only allowed nine GCSEs plus an extra (not GCSE) like an Arts Award or Business thing at my daughter's (independent) school.
If they want to do more they either have to do it in their own (like a native language) or in Y10.

Original poster

lililililililili · 24/09/2023 20:27

Apologies my child is not at a secondary yet so my assumptions or understandings of the process may sound very daft, which is true!

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