The options process marks an important stage in a child’s education; a decision that helps to move them further towards a successful and happy future. At Blessed Thomas Holford Catholic College we aim to support all students to ensure that they study subjects that will provide them with enjoyment, challenge, and success.

What is the English Baccalaureate?

The EBacc is not a qualification, but a combination of GCSE subjects.

To achieve the EBacc, students need to pass GCSEs at Grade 5 or higher in each of the following

5 Pillars of the English Baccalaureate:

• English Language

• Mathematics

• Two from: Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science or Physics

• Humanities subject: Geography or History

• Foreign Language: French  or Spanish.

Why is the English Baccalaureate important?

The Department for Education’s policy to promote and increase the study of this combination of subjects is believed essential to improving young people’s life chances (the DfE has set a target of 75% of pupils entering the EBacc by 2022, and 90% by 2025). The EBacc is academically challenging, and prospective employers and universities may regard students with the EBacc more favourably than students without it. The EBacc is also recommended by Britain’s most prestigious universities.

A study by the University College London Institute of Education shows that studying subjects included in the EBacc provides students with greater opportunities in further education and increases the likelihood that a student will stay on in full-time education.

Miss Morton

EBacc Co-ordinator