Science

Our aim is to create knowledgeable, scientifically literate and technologically capable problem solvers. We foster a spirit of inquiry to discover the awe and wonder of science by nurturing their curiosity and bringing current, relevant and real-world science to their classroom experience. We want to prepare our students to become informed citizens who are capable of comprehending, analysing and making well-reasoned judgments on global issues.

Our Curriculum

Our KS2 curriculum builds enquiry skills and develops a deeper understanding of a wide range of scientific ideas in an immersive thematic approach that links prior knowledge to future learning by inspiring curiosity and that prepares the students to explore topics linked to the 10 big ideas in KS3. A spiral curriculum design allows students to revisit key concepts and add to their knowledge and widen their understanding of key concepts. The AQA KS3 curriculum forms a secure foundation upon which to extend their exploration of science in their GCSE course.

To view a copy of the Science Learning Journeys from KS2-4 click here.  

The GCSE course is divided into AQA Combined Science (Trilogy) leading to 2 GCSEs or the Single GCSE Sciences allowing the students to achieve 3 GCSEs. As students move through their learning journey they will develop their curiosity, gain insight into working scientifically and appreciate the value of science in their everyday lives. Our curriculum provides a platform for more advanced science-based study providing a gateway into a range of career opportunities. 

To view copies of the KS4 Science curriculums click here.

Scientific enquiry skills are at the core of our curriculum. Linking theory with experimental observation is key. Critical thinking and problem solving are developed within the practical sessions and within specialised Scientific Enquiry lessons in the KS3 and 4 curricula. These lessons enable students to consolidate their mathematical and literary skills within a scientific context. 

We offer a number of STEM activities throughout the year, ranging from our Science club to dissection club, CCI programme for KS2 students with scientists and engineers from Johnson Matthey and Imagineering club. No year would be complete without the annual celebration of British Science week with activities and guest speakers. 

Assessment in Science

There are key assessment points at the KS transitions to ensure that students continue to make progress. At the beginning and end of year 7 there is the AQA Transition Assessments at scientific skill knowledge. At the beginning and the end of year 9 there are the AQA KS3 to KS4 GCSE Readiness Assessment. A copy of exemplar exam papers for KS4 can be viewed at the link given above.  Throughout the students' learning journey there are end of topic knowledge assessments, diagnostic homework tasks and knowledge retrieval opportunities at the beginning of lessons.   To view how pupils are assessed at KS3 see the the Assessment grids below:

• Year 7 

• Year 8

• Year 9

Throughout the science curriculum we make sure that common misconceptions are addressed and do not become obstacles to learning. We review the curriculum and relate it to the familiar situations and experiences of our students, current affairs or technological advances.