Science

Why Choose Science?

The department is led by separate Heads of Physics, Chemistry and Biology, managed and co-ordinated by the Head of Science. We have eighteen highly experienced and well-qualified teachers, with a good balance across the three specialisms, as well as an intervention worker and four technicians. Lessons are largely delivered in eleven well-equipped laboratories, four of which were recently refurbished.

 

Department Ethos

We are determined to provide a practical, engaging and rigorous Science curriculum that both enthuses students and enables them to pursue the subject to the full extent of their ability. We pride ourselves on being a friendly and welcoming team with a culture of collaboration and teamwork that creates a lively and stimulating working environment.

 

Curriculum | Key Stage 3

We deliver the new Key Stage 3 National Curriculum across Years 7 and 8 using the Exploring Science Assessment model and with practical skills assessments which we have designed to prepare students for the new GCSE specification.

 

Curriculum | Key Stage 4

GCSE Science is taught across Years 9, 10 and 11, following the AQA GCSE Science courses. Combined Science Trilogy and the Separate Sciences are offered with approximately 40% of our students entered for Separate Science GCSEs.

Both courses feature required practicals and Maths skills.

 

Curriculum | Key Stage 5

In the Sixth Form we teach A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, all following AQA specifications. We also offer a Level 3 Applied Science BTEC course. Our retention rate is high, with a record number of students studying advanced level science courses in recent years. A-level results in all three individual Sciences are very good, averaging around 60% A*-B at A2 level, and many students leave the school to follow STEM based degree courses at universities and colleges, including a significant number who apply for Medicine and to Oxbridge.

 

Extra-Curricular Activities

Extra-curricular Science opportunities include a Key Stage 3 Science club, Ecology club, a wide range of educational visits and an A Level Chemistry Café.

 

Future Careers

  • Engineering
  • Architecture
  • Geophysicist
  • Nursing
  • Medicine
  • Surveyor
  • Optician
  • Dentistry
  • Teacher
  • Research

 

Exam Specifications

Current curriculum specifications can be downloaded below: