Science

Introduction

As a core National Curriculum subject science is compulsory and occupies a significant proportion of the teaching week for all pupils in the lower and middle school. It is also an increasingly important area in modern life - we all depend in many ways on the application of science and today everyone must be able to take their part in the many debates as to how science should be used for the good of all. Concern for the planet is demanding a shift from a philosophy of growth to one of sustainability, and this will provide significant new challenges to the scientists and citizens of the future.

As a result many changes are currently coming to the science curriculum at all levels and our courses are developing to reflect this. It is an opportunity to build more links with the history and application of science and with other curriculum areas. The philosophy of the department is to provide a sound scientific literacy for all and to underpin further study for those who will continue to A-level and beyond.

Facilities

The Science Department occupies a suite of four first floor laboratories and preparation rooms which were completed in November 1994. Two new laboratories and a prep room with a modern design were built at this time by conversion of existing classrooms, bringing the science department together as a single unit. A lift was also incorporated ensuring efficient servicing.

Curriculum

Science is taught as an integrated course in Y7 and Y8. From Y9 on biology, chemistry and physics are taught separately by teachers who are subject specialists with the aim of building an identity for each subject area within science through to A level study. At Key Stage 4, from 2006, a quarter of students in each year (one set) study for a separate GCSE exam in each of the three sciences. The remaining students study a Science ‘Core’ plus two separate sciences.

AQA GCSE courses are followed. At A-level OCR Biology and Physics courses are followed while Edexcel Chemistry is taken.

General

The Science Department supports the delivery of the curriculum in a variety of ways including visits to London for update and local hospitals as well as through field visits for environmental work. A network of support has also been built up through contact with local organisations and working scientists, including former pupils. From time to time the department has participated successfully in national competitions, such as the British Association Mastermind contest, where the National Final was reached twice and also the Bayer Science for Life Competition reaching the national final in 2002. Individual or small group work is available where this is required.

Staff

There are five teachers in the department supported by a laboratory technician.