Predominantly, pupils take the widest breadth of subjects in first year before starting their two year GCSE courses. Pupils are encouraged to explore a lot of subjects in order to decide which subjects to carry on with. They may expect to take around 12 subjects, including creative ones such as DT, Art or Music.  Before 2nd year, pupils choose approximately 9 subjects to continue with. The average number of GCSEs to take is 7 across the UK but those in boarding schools tend to take more. Note that there are two English GCSEs and further maths, meaning that 9 subjects may correspond to 11 GCSEs. Those fluent in a language have the choice to take the GCSE in their respective language a year early. The Chinese GCSE requires no extra study and simply serves to supplement a pupil's academic record.