There was a real buzz in the school on Wednesday evening of this week for our annual Year 9 Options Evening. As Assistant Headteacher Ms Knowles pointed out to parents and carers and students in her presentation in the Main Hall at the start of the evening, the approach that Bushey Meads School takes when supporting students with this crucial stage in their education is quite unique. All other schools create ‘Option Blocks’ which actually restrict choice for students; at Bushey Meads we allow all students a genuine free choice and then create the Key Stage 4 timetable around what the students want. This maximises choice, ensures that 100% of students get at least their first choice, and often their second and third choice subjects, increases motivation and engagement throughout Key Stage 4 and really supports the vast majority of students to excel at subjects they really enjoy studying.

The other unique factor of our options process is also the vast range of subjects on offer – unlike any other school in the area. Students at Bushey Meads are incredibly fortunate to be able to choose from a huge array of different courses, ranging from the traditional academic, right through an eclectic range of artistic, creative, vocational and practical subjects offered across our diverse curriculum here at the school.

Ably supported with further wise words from Mrs Blowers our hard working and dedicated Pastoral Manager, and Mrs McIldowie our Head of Work Related Learning who also advised our students and their parents and carers in the talks in the Main Hall, students at Bushey Meads really can create exciting futures!