A new school year brings new lessons, new opportunities and, for Year 9 pupils, a little more independence. With GCSE options now part of their timetables, we decided to find out how this year’s Year 9s are settling into school life.
We interviewed Jesse and Niamh to hear their thoughts on their new subjects, spending time with friends and, of course, their new blazers. Moving into Year 9 can feel like a big step, particularly as pupils begin studying subjects they have chosen themselves. For Jesse and Niamh, this seems to be one of the biggest benefits of the new school year.
When we asked Niamh about her favourite subject, she told us, “I think Music is my favourite subject.” She also seems pleased with her new timetable, particularly because it means she gets to spend more time with friends she didn’t share lessons with last year. “Yeah, I can see more of the friends that I didn’t have in my lessons in Year 8. It’s a lot better with my friends,” she explained.
But it’s not just about seeing friends. Niamh also feels that Year 9 has given her more independence and the chance to study subjects that are more relevant to her future. When asked whether her lessons feel more worthwhile, she explained that she enjoys studying subjects that will contribute towards her GCSEs and prefers having more choice over what she learns.
Next, we spoke to Jesse, who also seems to be enjoying the freedom that comes with choosing GCSE options. Like Niamh, Jesse named Music as her favourite subject and explained that she enjoys studying her chosen options. It seems that having more control over their subjects is something both pupils appreciate. After all, spending more time studying things you enjoy can make the school day feel a little more interesting.
Of course, Year 9 isn’t just about new subjects. There’s also the introduction of blazers, which pupils are getting used to. Niamh doesn’t seem too bothered by hers, explaining, “I don’t mind my blazer as I get to take it off in lessons, so I’m not wearing it that much.” Jesse found a practical benefit to wearing hers, pointing out that it means she can carry things around more easily.
Overall, Jesse and Niamh seem to be settling into Year 9 well. Both pupils appreciate having more choice over their subjects and the opportunity to study things they enjoy. With GCSEs getting closer, Year 9 marks the beginning of an important new chapter in school life, offering pupils the chance to develop their independence, explore their interests and begin preparing for the next stage of their education.
By Catelin, Eliza, Amelie and Alice