Science

“The important thing is to never stop questioning.” Albert Einstein

In this ever evolving technological world, we aim to equip our students with the scientific skills and knowledge necessary for success. We strive to give our students the opportunity to discover and explore the world around us through engaging lessons and practical investigation.

YEAR 7

In mixed ability groups, students will cover topics such as cells, body systems, reproduction, particles, elements, acids, alkalis, forces, sound and space.

YEAR 8

In mixed ability groups, students will cover topics such as health, ecosystems, adaptations, periodic table, separation techniques, metals, energy, motion and electricity.

YEAR 9

In mixed ability groups, students will begin the KS4 syllabus, focusing on key scientific techniques in bio-mimicry, cell structure, atomic structure and the particle model.

All students are equipped with a secure foundation of scientific skills and confidence on which to build at KS4.

YEAR 10 & 11

In Years 10 and 11, students are taught in sets based on ability and progress made during KS3. Biology, chemistry and physics are taught to all students as separate subjects by teachers normally specialist in the subject. Students will study either AQR Separate Sciences leading to three GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics or Combined Science leading to two GCSEs in science.

YEAR 12 & 13

A Level Biology
Biologists follow the OCR Biology A course. This course teaches the biological content in a wide range of areas such as genetics, biodiversity, ecology and immunology. It is examined with three written papers at the end of a student’s study.

A Level Chemistry
Chemists follow the OCR Chemistry A course. Chemical concepts are introduced within a relevant context, with students studying a series of units in a spiral way so that chemical ideas, introduced in an early topic, are reinforced later on.

A Level Physics
Physicists follow the content led approach of the OCR Physics A specification. Students build on their knowledge of the laws of physics, applying their understanding to solve problems on topics ranging from sub-atomic particles to the entire universe.

ASSESSMENT

More details can be found below.

EXAM BOARD LINKS

CLUBS & ACTIVITIES

  • Science club
  • Disneyland Paris Trip
  • Gardening Club
  • Annual Science Fair
  • Science Week Activities
  • Faraday Challenge
  • Nuffield Research Placements
  • SETPOINT Engineering Challenges
  • GCSE Revision Sessions
  • Big Bang Fair
  • Whipsnade Zoo Ecological Trip
  • Homework Help Clinics
  • Royal Air Force Roadshow

FAQs

WHAT RESOURCES/FACILITIES ARE THERE?
As well as having their own textbooks, students are also encouraged to improve their skills using computer technology which allows a wide variety of motivational and educational activities in every lesson. The department houses 8 fully stocked science laboratories, a large prep room and two study rooms for exam years. The department possesses a large amount of practical equipment, which is used by students at appropriate times.

HOW ARE PUPILS SET IN SCIENCE?
Years 7, 8 and 9 are taught in form groups in a combination of mixed ability groups. Since this move away from setting across the board, we have achieved some of our highest results and can report increased motivation within lessons.

CAN PUPILS MOVE OR WORK THEIR WAY UP TO A HIGHER SET?
Pupils can move between sets at KS4 based on test results and continuous teacher assessment.

WHAT DIFFERENT OPTIONS ARE THERE IN GCSE SCIENCE?
In Years 9 and 10 students follow either combined or separate science routes.  We also offer an entry level science certificate, leading to the combined science GCSE. Students will be placed into sets at the start of KS4.  The top set will follow the separate science route.

CAN STUDENTS MOVE BETWEEN ROUTES?
Yes, at several points we can move students in Years 10 and 11.

HOW ARE STUDENTS ASSESSED IN YEARS 10 AND 11?
For students currently in Year 9 and moving into Year 10, assessments will take the form of regular end of topic tests across all three sciences.  Students will sit terminal external exams at the end of Year 11.
The combined science course is assessed by 6 terminal exams in the Summer of Year 11 each lasting 1 hour 10 minutes.  There will be two papers in biology, two in chemistry and two in physics.
The separate science route will also be assessed in 6 terminal papers, two in each subject, each lasting 1 hour and 45 minutes.

USEFUL WEBSITES