Science is a way of discovering what’s in the universe and how those things work today, how they worked in the past, and how they are likely to work in the future.
Science is continually refining and expanding our knowledge of the universe, and as it does, it leads to new questions for future investigation.
KS3
At Key Stage 3, students study a wide range of topics in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
- In Year 7 students learn about topics such as space, forces, cells, movement, magnetism, energy, reproduction, matter & acids and alkalis
- In Year 8 students learn about topics such as digestion, breathing, periodic table, chemical reactions, evolution, inheritance, waves, pressure, heating and cooling.
- Year 9 will build upon the topics taught in Years 7 and 8, in order to ensure a firm base before moving onto the GCSE.
All lessons are taught by science specialist teachers, who are passionate about their subjects and student education.
KS4 – GCSE
Students will study the 3 separate sciences of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, or they will follow a combined science course. Science is a core subject and all students must study it at GCSE. There is no specific equipment needed, however, it is advisable for students to bring a scientific calculator to all lessons.
Students on all science courses develop a wide range of skills, including data analysis, evaluating problems, practical skills, team work and research. Many of these skills are transferable to other areas of the curriculum and to later life.
Key information about the separate sciences
Students on this pathway will get an individual grade for each separate science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics). This pathway is geared towards academic and well-motivated students who have an interest in studying science at A-level or beyond.
Main methods of assessment
Each separate science at GCSE is assessed with two end-of-course examinations, each 1 hour 45 minutes long.
Students are able to sit exams in either higher tier (grades 9-4) or foundation tier (5-1) depending on their ability.
Examinations will assess students’ knowledge of the curriculum and their knowledge of required practicals done throughout the course.
Possible career pathway
Past students have gone on to study Medicine, Veterinary Science, Applied Sciences, Biomedical sciences, Physiotherapy and Sport Science to name but a few.
Key information about the combined science course
Students on this pathway study for a double award GCSE in science. Students on this pathway will get two grades (e.g. 4-4) based on the total marks gained in exams in the Biology, Chemistry and Physics units.
This pathway is geared towards students in sets 2-4 and will give students a broad knowledge of all areas of the sciences. Students gaining high grades on this pathway are able to go on to study sciences at A-level.
Main methods of assessment
GCSE Combined Science is assessed with six end-of-course examinations, each 1 hour 15 minutes long (two biology, two chemistry, two physics papers).
Students are able to sit exams in either higher tier (grades 9-4) or foundation tier (5-1) depending on their ability.
Examinations will assess students’ knowledge of the curriculum and their knowledge of required practical’s done throughout the course.
Possible career pathway
Past students have gone on to study Applied Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Physiotherapy and Sport Science to name but a few.
