Key Stage 4 course selection process
We welcome Year 9 parents, carers and students to the Key Stage 4 course selection process at Blackfen School. This year, school leaders, subject leaders and teachers look forward to supporting Year 9 students and their families in the selection of Key Stage 4 qualifications that will nurture students’ academic aspirations for Key Stage 5 and beyond. 

We trust that the guidance on this page of the website will support your understanding of the courses on offer and enable you to be fully involved in the selection process. All of the letters and information sent home to Year 9 families will be posted on this page, as will the link for uploading your daughter’s finals selection of Key Stage 4 courses.

Key dates, events and deadlines for Year 9 parents, carers and students
November – December 2026
• 18.11.26 - Year 9 Information Assembly (1) introduces students to the Key Stage 4 course selection process. Parents and carers can view the Assembly presentation on Year 9 Teams. 
• The Year 9 student guidance booklet is issued. Students will also receive access to Unifrog, an online platform for exploring their interests, skills and future education and career opportunities which families and students can browse together. 
 
January – March 2027
• Students attend small-group careers interviews in school with the independent careers adviser
• 13.1.27 - Year 9 Information Assembly (2) introduces all of the courses available at Key Stage 4 to students, explains how course selection works and outlines any specific entry requirements. Parents and carers can view the Assembly presentation on Year 9 Teams.
• Students attend special Key Stage 4 Spotlight sessions delivered by Subject Leaders to discover more about the full range of subjects offered at Key Stage 4.
• 4.2.27 - Year 9 Information Evening provides further information about the Key Stage 4 curriculum and future pathways beyond Year 11.
• 11.2.27 - Year 9 Parents Evening: an invaluable opportunity to discuss your daughter's academic progress, strengths and interests with her teachers before making final course selections.

March 2027
•  2.3.27 – Blackfen School Careers Fair. Year 9 students and their families are welcome to meet a range of training and education providers – and think about future career possibilities. 
• DEADLINE: Wednesday 3rd March 2027 -  Submit on-line course selection form
• Week beginning 10.3.27 – Student meetings in school with a member of the Leadership Team to confirm courses selected for study in Key Stage 4.