Timetabling over 600 pupils in S3-S6 with individual course choices is a complicated process but at Trinity Academy we have been operating with an electronic course choice and timetabling system since 2018. Using a suite of software to support the coursing process we have been able to deliver a varied curriculum with a high level of personalisation choice.
This has created a dynamic and flexible curriculum offer which year on year is delivering over a 95% satisfaction rating for learners while providing progression pathways which offer breadth, depth, and also provide inclusive options for all.
Unfortunately, a timetable can do anything but not everything all at once and for those learner who are not able to get every course they initially selected we also have a fully integrated reserve system which provides pupils and staff with clear alternatives when things don’t work out as first planned.
Prior to making any course choices there are is a fully resourced and supported series of planning lessons delivered by Pupil Support Leaders during PSE classes. Course choice planning sheets will be issued at this time which are personalised for each learner and include recommended levels of study for the next session. Pupils, parents/carers and Pupil Support Leaders work together during the planning stages to ensure pupils are coursed into appropriate subjects which provide suitable pathways through school.
Ordinarily, all pupils will complete their course choices between January and early March. Specific dates are also included on this webpage and on the course choice planning sheets which are issued during the coursing process.
Towards the bottom of this page you will see a series of links to the course choice guides and course choice planning sheets. We have also included an FAQ (generated from the 2021 and 2022 virtual information evenings), deadline dates and a series of useful links, which may help you with your preparation and planning.
A course choice information evening will be held in January 2023 to support families with the coursing process. In advance of any event, we have created a narrated presentation which covers key information that is shared each session. This will guide you through the curriculum structure, course options process and pathways through the senior phase.
*Please do not be concerned about any of the images used in the presentation. These are exemplars to raise awareness of content and layout. Subjects offered change year upon year and your child’s sheet will contain the most up to date courses being offered.*
We have developed a Course Choice Guide for each year group, which explains the process in three stages:
Each guide is for a specific year group and will explain some of the nuances of the course choices process in an easy to understand format.
This will give you an overview of the course choice process and is useful for both pupils and parents/carers.
You are also able to download blank course choice planning sheets here.
*Please note the date of upload for files in this section.
Course Choice Guides | Course Choice Sheets |
Coursing Process: Information Booklet for S2>S3 Pupils and Parents/Carers
|
S3 Version Updated for 2023 |
Coursing Process: Information Booklet for S3/4/5>S4/5/6 Pupils and Parents/Carers
S4/5/6 Senior Phase: Course Choice Guide |
S4 Version Updated for 2023 |
S5 Version S6 Version |
Please ensure all course choice sheets are submitted to your Pupil Support Leader AFTER you have entered your choices on the TOOLS website.
All course choices MUST be completely finalised by Friday 18th March 2022 to allow timetabling to begin. If you have been absent or needed extra time, please contact your PSL or Mr Todd befre the deadline.
Useful Website Links | Description |
My World of Work | Career suggestions tailored to you |
Nationals in a Nutshell | Advice and tools for getting a job, apprenticeships and applying to universities and colleges |
The Complete University Guide | Everything you need to know about all universities in the UK |
UCAS | University applications |
Leaps | Advice, encouragement and support for applying for higher education |
Edinburgh College | Edinburgh College |
ELRAH | Alternative pathways help/info for applying for higher education |
Nationals in a Nutshell | Helpful resource for parents which explains the National qualifications. Parent suggestion from Information/Q&A Event Feb 2022 |
Should you have any further questions please do not hesitate to contact Mr Todd.