Science: Biology, Chemistry and Physics

Years 7 and 8 are taught 'Science' for three lessons per week by one teacher. It is taught in topics, alternating Biology, Chemistry and Physics, which take three-four weeks each. Three lessons of Science (rather then one lesson per week of Biology, Chemistry and Physics) allows for continuity of the current topic and allows the teacher to get to know their pupils well.

Year 9 are taught Biology, Chemistry and Physics by three specialist teachers for one lesson per week for each Science. At this level, we think specialist teachers are the ideal. Teachers can convey more enthusiasm for a subject they are passionate about.  We start teaching the AQA GCSE Science course, selecting topic areas accessible to Year 9.

Examining Board: AQA

At GCSE pupils have a choice for their GCSE Science courses:    

The Core Option

This route leads to two GCSEs: Combined Science: GCSE (Double Award: Trilogy). Pupils study Biology, Chemistry and Physics with three specialist teachers. This is considered by the examination boards to be an acceptable route for continuing with the Sciences at A level. 

Pupils following this route are set by ability. This enables us to teach the lower ability sets in small groups. We can then teach in a style and at a pace more appropriate to those pupils and we can give them more individual attention. We start with the intention that all pupils will be entered for the higher tier examination papers.

The Separate Sciences

This route leads to three GCSEs: Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Each Science is studied with a specialist teacher.  Separate Science is a very popular option generally chosen by over half of the Year Group. In our opinion, this option should be seriously considered by those pupils intending to study Science at A level and beyond.

Pupils following this route are taught in option blocks depending on the other GCSE option subjects they choose.

Examining Board: OCR

Biology is the study of living organisms including their physiology and behaviour. It is a very popular subject at A level. We have two groups in both the Lower Sixth and the Upper Sixth. This is a desirable (though not absolutely required) subject for courses such as medicine. Many of our students do go on to study biological based courses at university, such as Biology, Zoology and Physiology.  

Chemistry is the study of matter, its reactions and properties. It a popular subject at A level. We have two groups in both the Lower Sixth and the Upper Sixth. It is a required subject for most students wishing to embark on courses such as Chemistry, Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry and Pharmacy. It is also useful for students going on to study Physics or any of the Biological Sciences.  

Physics is an exciting and challenging subject, needing an inquiring mind and a logical approach. The rewards include a deeper understanding of the world around us and the development of analytical and practical skills sought by employers. Many of our students have gone on to study Physics or Engineering at top universities, including Oxford and Cambridge. Physics is also useful for those wanting to study other Sciences, Mathematics, even Music.