Science

The Department comprises eight dedicated laboratories, each with fully interactive whiteboards and wireless digital appications. All staff are fully trained and experienced science teachers. Pupils have the opportunity to use the three sets of wireless laptops.

Key Stage 3

In years seven and eight pupils cover a condensed KS3 Programme of Science. It is based on key units covering the National Curriculum and personalised to meet the needs of all pupils. We also deliver a structured thinking skills programme called CASE (cognitive acceleration through science education). The intentions are to equip pupils at KS3 with the ability to think independently and develop skills that enables them to think outside the box.

The learning in the first two years provides the foundation for GCSE courses. In year nine pupils start their GCSE course, they also take their SAT exam at the end of the year.

Key Stage 4

Pupils can select 3 routes through KS4. At the beginning of year 9 they are given the option of Separate science GCSE or BTEC Applied Science (worth 1 GCSE) which they follow for one year.

At the end of Y9 the BTEC pupils are given the option of either continuing to follow the BTEC course and gain the equivalent of 4 GCSEs in total. The other option is to follow  Gateway Science and Additional Science to give a total of 2 GCSEs (in addition to the BTEC qualification which gave them the equivalent of 1 GCSE)  

BTEC Science in  Y9

This course allows pupils to maintain a broad and balanced portfolio of subjects. The BTEC course is assessed through a series of assessed practicals and assignments, it is not externally examined.

BTEC in Y10 - 11

In Year 10 pupils work towards the BTEC extended certificate and then in Year 11 pupils achieve a full Diploma, which is equivalent to 4 GCSE grades. Again the course is composed a series of assessed practicals and assignments and there are no examinations.  It is not advised if they intend to follow ‘A’ level Science and a Science Degree if they choose to do so at the end of Year 11.

Gateway Science and Additional Science Y10 – 11

Pupils considering ‘A’ level sciences should follow this option in Y10 – 11 In Year 10 they follow a GCSE Science course and in Y11 the Additional Science course. For both these courses there are examinations in January and June as well as Controlled Assessments which are completed in supervised conditions in class. The courses both have an even mix of Biology, Chemistry and Physics and grades awarded range from A* to G.

Separate Sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) Y9 - 11

This is the option choice for more able scientists who are likely to follow ‘A’ level Science and a Science Degree. Each of the three subjects is studied separately and pupils have the opportunity to look in more depth at each subject. Teachers recommend that a pupil may opt for this choice if they believe that a pupil is able to gain ‘B’ grades or higher on the programme.