We aim to develop learners who are curious about the world, who utilise practical approaches effectively and can employ transferable analytical skills across different disciplines. We want our pupils to be able to make informed judgements, whether they are assessing scientific claims being made, investing in new technologies or developing their own ideas.
The main aims of our Department are:
- To inspire students to be engaged citizens, who can use scientific knowledge and skills in order to navigate their way through life.
- To develop pupils' proficiencies in the use of scientific approaches and skills when investigating and problem solving.
- To help pupils understand the world of which they are a part, through being able to describe and explain various physical, chemical and biological phenomena.
Key Stage 3
Our KS3 curriculum is organised in themes. We start in Year 7 with ideas about what the world is made of, such as rocks, planets, particles, elements and organisms. In Year 8, students progress to the concepts of energy and reactions across physics, chemistry and biology. In preparation for transition to KS4, Year 9 material is concerned with bigger picture ideas such as evolution, climate and resources. Students learn about scientific theories, how to apply them to familiar and unfamiliar concepts and how to plan and carry out investigations. At the end of each year, students carry out a full scientific investigation developed by the Crick Institute.
Year 7
- General Laboratory Safety
- Basic Chemical Reactions
- Cells, Tissues and Organs
- Particle Models
- Electricity and Magnetism
- Basic Forces
Year 8
- Body Systems
- Elements and Compounds
- Light, Space
- Heat, Sound
- Ecology
Year 9
- Healthy Lifestyles
- Genetics
- Metal Reactions
- Combustion
- Electrical Energy
- Forces and Motion
- Skills refresher course
Key Stage 4
There are two possible pathways of study available. Both allow learners to access A Level and vocational courses at KS5, but they differ in the breadth of material covered.
Route 1: Combined Science (Trilogy) AQA
This route provides a foundation for both those who wish to pursue further study and those who simply aim to be scientifically literate. This results in two GCSEs and a double grade comprised of an average from exam results across all three disciplines. Key topics include the structure of the atom, types of waves and the functioning of the mammalian body.
Route 2: Triple Science GCSE Specification AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics
This route is suitable for students who have a keen interest in science and have shown strong academic capabilities over their KS3 course. This results in 3 GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, which are separately assessed. The same topics are covered as in Combined Science, but with additional areas such as genetic engineering, use of resources in the natural world and space.