Science
Team Overview
We are a large and committed team who work closely together on the development and improvement of all aspects of our work. We aim to enthuse and inspire our students in Science and are constantly working to help them achieve in the subject.
There are 17 Science teachers, a Science learning manager and 3 technicians. Our accommodation is impressive. We have 14 labs, 3 prep rooms (one with chemical store) and a large staff work area housed in a purpose built block which was completed in spring 2005.
Students are broadly set by ability throughout Key Stages Three and Four.
Key Stage 3
All students follow the Exploring Science Scheme. At the end of each unit they complete assessments in the form of tests or extended writing tasks, and these are used to monitor progress. They are also assessed using APP tasks: this includes project work and presentations and these marks contribute to the end of Key Stage Level. In Year 9 students complete the Key Stage Three curriculum and then work specifically on the key skills they will need to access the ‘skills’ part of their Key Stage Four curriculum. Following this they begin their first unit of GCSE work.
Key Stage 4
We follow the OCR Gateway specification. Most students take Core Science in Year 10 and Additional Science in Year 11. We have recently introduced a level 2 BTEC course and are excited about this additional aspect our personalised curriculum. To extend our more able students we offer the opportunity to take separate Science GCSEs. Results are strong and prepare students well to progress their Science education into the Sixth Form.
Key Stage 5
We have a large and thriving Key Stage Five curriculum in Science with uptake typically being 10% above the national average. Results are good, with those in A Level Chemistry being routinely in the top 25% of similar schools nationally and Biology, Physics and Level 3 BTEC Science all in the top 40% or higher.
We are proud of the enrichment opportunities we are able to offer in Science including speakers, trips, Science club and the chance to get involved in releasing high altitude balloons and rockets. This is in addition to a range of personalised revision sessions offered at key points throughout the year.
