Pathways and assertive course choice at Denny High School

At Denny High School, we offer a wide range of pathways designed to inspire and support every pupil in achieving their personal goals. These pathways provide clear opportunities for progression and reflect the diverse interests and aspirations of our learners.

We place a strong emphasis on assertive course choice, encouraging pupils to recognise their strengths and pursue subjects where they can achieve at the highest appropriate level. To support this, pupils will be asked to identify the five subjects in which they feel they perform best.

When selecting courses, it is important that pupils consider how their choices align with their future ambitions. Each pathway outlines routes into further study, training, or employment, helping pupils make informed decisions that will strengthen their next steps.

S2 into S3 Course choice information below

S2 GOING INTO S3 - 2026/2027

We are pleased to share the 2026/27 Course Choice Booklet for our current S2 pupils. This booklet outlines the range of courses available for S3. Please note that all courses listed are subject to sufficient uptake and staff availability.

We encourage Parents and Carers to spend time discussing the options with their child, considering both their interests and future aspirations. Pupils will choose a total of seven courses for S3. This includes Mathematics and English, which are compulsory, leaving five additional subjects to select from the booklet unless special arrangements apply.

We look forward to supporting pupils in making informed choices for the year ahead.

CLICK BELOW TO ACCESS OUR INTERACTIVE COURSE CHOICE BOOKLET FOR OUR CURRENT S2 PUPILS.

S2 into S3 interactive course choice booklet

Click to Download S2 into S3 Course Choice booklet [pdf 28MB] Click to Download

S2 into S3 Course Choice: One-Page Option Sheet

We are pleased to provide a one-page school option sheet for S2 into S3 course choices. This form will be used by Heads of House during their meetings with your child to discuss their course selections. It offers a quick snapshot of the course offerings available for S3, helping to streamline the decision-making process. We encourage parents and carers to review this form with their child to support them in making informed choices about their next steps.

Click to Download Denny High School S2 into S3 Personalisation and Choice 2026-27 [pdf 313KB] Click to Download

S4/5 GOING INTO S5/6 - 2026 / 2027

On this page you will find course choice options for the 2026/27 academic session. This is an important step in shaping your educational journey, and we encourage all pupils to make informed decisions about their future.

To help guide your choices, we have prepared a comprehensive Course Choice Booklet, which provides detailed information about each subject, including content and structure. It is essential that pupils read this booklet carefully before making their selections. This will ensure that you fully understand the requirements and opportunities associated with each course.

Parents and Carers are also encouraged to review the booklet alongside pupils to provide support during this process.

If you have any questions or need further advice, please do not hesitate to contact our Head of House team. 

Senior Course Choice

Our provisional Senior Phase Course Choice booklet for pupils moving into S5 and S6 next session is now available. Both an interactive version and a PDF download can be accessed below. The booklet outlines the full range of courses that may be offered, though final availability will depend on pupil uptake and staffing.

Interactive link below.

Senior Phase course choice booklet (interactive)

Downloadable pdf.

Senior Phase - Course choice option form

Below you will find our new S4 and S5 Course Choice Form, which pupils will use to select their subject options for session 2026/27.

To support pupils and families in making informed decisions, we will be holding a Parent/Carer Information Evening on Thursday 5th February at 5.30pm. This event will provide further explanation of the course choice process and offer an opportunity to ask questions and seek clarification.

This year, we will not be using columns. Instead, we will take an assertive approach and do our utmost to ensure that learners are able to take their strongest subjects to the next level. Please note that there is no guarantee that all courses will run, as this will depend on uptake and staffing.

Click to Download Senior Phase - course choice form [pdf 303KB] Click to Download

College Applications 

SCOTS courses

Our Schools College Opportunities to Succeed (SCOTS) Programme may interest you if you are a school pupil who wants to experience college without having to undertake a full qualification. The SCOTS programme allows you to try a course more relaxed manner with no pressure of having to fit a full qualification into your timetables.

Previously, some pupils look to the SCOTS programme as a way of building confidence to apply for a course either on the School College Partnership programme or as a transition course to familiarise themselves with the college environment.

After completing the SCOTS programme, we are confident you will better know which career path you would like to follow. The SCOTS programme is only available to pupils from schools based in Falkirk.

For further information and to apply, pupils should speak to their Head of house.

 

https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/ways-to-study/school-partnership/scots-programme-courses-202526/

Applications will open Tuesday 27 January and close on Friday 29 May 2026.

 

School partnership courses

School partnership courses at Forth Valley College - for senior school pupils - offer a wide range of vocational courses to study alongside school-based National and Higher qualifications.  Our extensive range of school partnership courses are pitched at a range of levels to study at our Falkirk, Stirling and Alloa Campuses. 

https://www.forthvalley.ac.uk/ways-to-study/school-partnership/school-partnership/

Applications will open Tuesday 27 January 2026 

 

Your 16+ Guide

Thinking about college but not sure where to start? This guide is here to help! Packed with essential information on college applications and expert tips on writing a strong personal statement, it’s designed to make the process smoother and less stressful.

Whether you know exactly what you want to do or are still exploring your options, this guide will give you the tools and confidence to take the next step toward your future.

 

Click to Download 16+ Support Guide [pdf 696KB] Click to Download

Connected Learning 

Falkirk Virtual learning offer 2025-26

These courses allow pupils from any Falkirk School to access a subject virtually that either isn’t already offered in school, or isn’t offered at a time that they can attend. These courses can help pupils develop skills that will be useful beyond school such as independent learning and time management skills. SCAN THE QR CODE FOR MORE INFORMATION. 

Level 6/Higher courses available

Higher Psychology, Higher Computing, Higher Human Biology, Higher Politics and Higher French

Level 7/Advanced Higher Courses available

AH Chemistry, AH Mathematics, AH Graphic, AH History and L7 software development

Entry requirements and Frequently asked questions can be found using the QR code below.

 

E-sgoil 

E-sgoil

We are pleased to offer pupils the opportunity to select from a range of e-Sgoil online courses as part of their course choice options in Column E. These courses provide access to flexible, high-quality learning delivered by expert teachers through an engaging online platform.

E-Sgoil courses are an excellent choice for pupils looking to broaden their subject choices, explore new areas of interest, or fit learning around their individual needs. Whether you’re aiming to deepen your knowledge in a specific subject or pursue a qualification not available on-site, e-Sgoil provides a valuable pathway to achieve your goals.

Certificated Courses 2025-26 | e-Sgoil

Edinburgh College

Edinburgh College – Languages offering

We are excited to offer pupils the opportunity to enhance their learning through an Open Learning Course with Edinburgh College. This program provides access to a range of flexible, online courses designed to complement your studies and support your personal and academic growth.

For more details about the courses available and how to apply, please visit For School Pupils | Edinburgh College.

LEAPS

Leaps Transitions Course

The LEAPS Transitions Course is designed to give you the skills and experience needed to make a positive transition from school to university. Throughout the course, you will work with academics and students from other schools on developing first-year university-level academic skills. You will gain confidence and an understanding of what it takes to be successful at university. This is a unique opportunity to get the ‘uni’ experience before starting for real. During the course you will be enrolled at the University of Edinburgh, but the course itself will be helpful regardless of which university you hope to study at after school.

For more information please visit Transitions Course | LeapsOnline