Overview

The Science Faculty consists of four departments, Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology. Together they aim to stimulate curiosity, interest and enjoyment in science whilst providing students with an educational experience that enables them to become confident citizens in a technological world.
Science education provides students with the opportunity to discover and develop an understanding of physical, chemical and biological phenomena. It allows them to recognise the usefulness and limitations of scientific methods and appreciate their applicability in other disciplines and everyday life. It promotes awareness that science is subject to social, economic, technological, ethical and cultural influences and limitations and those applications of science may be both beneficial and detrimental to the individual, community and environment. The abilities and skills that are developed through science education helps to give students the confidence to make a positive contribution to society, by enhancing their ability to make informed judgements based on evidence.

Science

Year 9

In Year 9, students follow a bespoke science course written by our own teachers. This follows on from the Key Stage 3 work they have covered in middle schools in biology, chemistry, physics and ‘how science works’. The course is taught by subject specialists during four single periods each week and integrates practical, research, theoretical and communication tasks, challenges and competitions. Students will cover key concepts that form the foundations for studying GCSE Science, Additional Science and the triple science route. Students are encouraged to demonstrate their understanding in a variety of ways, some of which are formally assessed through tests, reports and multimedia presentations. After Easter in Year 9, students begin their GCSE science course, following the OCR Gateway Science course, which is explained in detail elsewhere.

Year 10

GCSE science is completed in year 10 and covers biology, chemistry and physics, delivered in 3 double lessons per week. It allows students to develop their scientific knowledge, research and practical skills and encourages them to evaluate contemporary scientific issues.
It is assessed by examinations in January and June (67%) and by coursework throughout the course (33%). The coursework element is composed of Can Do Tasks that assess practical abilities and a Science in the News report that assesses research, analysis and evaluation skills.
GCSE science prepares students for the Additional Science GCSE.

Year 11 Additional Science

GCSE Additional science is completed in year 11 and covers biology, chemistry and physics, delivered in 3 double lessons per week. It allows students to develop their scientific knowledge, research and practical skills and encourages them to evaluate contemporary scientific issues.
It is assessed by examinations in January and June (67%) and by coursework throughout the course (33%). The coursework element is composed of 3 components: Practical Skills, Data Task and Research Study. Together they assess practical, research, analysis and evaluation skills.
GCSE Additional Science, together with GCSE Science (at grade B or above) prepares students for Science A levels.