Science

Science is one of the cornerstones of our civilisaton. Through science we are beginning to unravel the secrets of nature and understand how the universe began. Science has solved many of the problems that have plagued humankind for centuries and is an integral part of our everyday lives through technology.

With our advancements in science, so have come new issues to think about; Should we clone humans? Should we use more nuclear power as fossil fuel resources run out? How are we damging the environment and what can we do about it?

In order to play a part in the solutions to these questions, everybody in society needs to have at least a basic understanding of science and the issues it raises.

Aims

Through exciting demonstrations, engaging activities and practical lessons led by specialist teachers we aim to;

• Get our students enthusiastic about science
• Develop critical thinking and practical skills
• Encourage a deeper understanding of what science is and how it affects all of us

The Curriculum

Keystage 3 (Year 7 to 9)

All students follow the new national curriculum for science. The new curriculum is particularly focused on skills and understanding. Students follow a modular scheme, studying biology, chemistry and physics by specialist science teachers.

Throughout the modules, students are given opportunites to self assess and reflect upon their progress to consider how make further improvements. Students also take formal tests at the end of each module so that we can accurately track progress.

Students who make good progress in year 7 and 8 are also given the opportunity to begin studying for their keystage 4 qualifications in year 9.

Keystage 4 (Year 10 to 11)

There are a number of pathways available to students at keystage 4.

As a minimum requirement, all students will follow either core GCSE or BTEC science. We carefully guide our students into these courses based on ability and aptitude;

• Core GCSE (OCR Gateway) – is a balanced science course which is based on aproximately 66% external examination and 33% internal assessment tasks.
• BTEC science – is a course based on 100% in school coursework tasks.

Optional science

For students who are able and keen to study A level science in sixth form we offer OCR Triple science. This is a highly demanding course which is made up of 66% external and 33% internal assessment in each of the three science areas; biology, chemistry and physics.