Science

Leader: Mr Rickard

The science department have five full-time and one part-time teacher who teach in five well-equipped laboratories and a computer suite. All rooms have digital projectors and interactive white boards.  The department is supported by one full-time and two part-time technicians who prepare materials for the lessons and two linked learning support assistants who provide support for students in lessons or in small groups.

At Key Stage 3, students study a combination of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, units that cover the KS3 National Curriculum topics of Scientific Investigation, Cells, Interdependence, Particles, Energy and Forces. Practical work is an important part of science teaching and is included in as many lessons as possible. Students will have tests in class at the end of each science module to assess their progress against their targets. Throughout the year, they will also complete a number of activities in class, which are assessed by their teachers and by themselves, and they then have the opportunity to improve.

At Key Stage 4, a range of courses is available for students to follow, each having different assessment models:

The BTEC First Diploma in Applied Science (equivalent to four GCSEs grades A*-C)

The BTEC First Certificate in Applied Science (equivalent to two GCSEs grade A*-C)

Double science (equivalent to 2 GCSE's grades A* to G)

or Triple science GCSE which gives separate qualifications in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

There will be several opportunities for students to take part in projects, visits and competitions. In the past these have included field trips, visits to the Science Museum, links with EDF Energy and Science taster days at Park College.

.