Science Department
Welcome to the science department page. Science in the 21st century has changed dramatically since the days of Aristotle, Galileo and Newton. Advances in science and technology continue to headline in newspapers and raise massive public debate. 21st century science delivers a modern approach to science education where students learn about and explore modern controversial scientific topics including cloning, stem cell embryology, fertility treatments, global warming, exposure to radiation, communications and sustainable energy sources among many others. Our students have responded positively to this new approach and we are excited about the future of science education.
At Key Stage 3, students study the National Curriculum using resources from the Pearson-Longman publisher. As the curriculum changes we are adapting our resources and teaching styles to address the newer aspects of How Science Works. Students sit their SATs exams in Year 9 and begin their GCSE core science learning in the weeks following the SATs exams in May. Students are able to purchase high quality revision material from the science department to assist in their preparation for the examinations at KS3 and KS4.
The science department consists of eight teachers and two full time technicians. We have two preparation rooms and seven teaching laboratories each equipped with a data projector and desktop PC. Three of our laboratories are fitted with an interactive whiteboard and we have plans to install a further three this year. We use a wide range of learning and teaching strategies in lessons including regular use of ICT, literacy, numeracy and Assessment for Learning strategies to help stimulate and provide challenge for our students. We are striving towards a personalised curriculum with the introduction of GCSE biology in September 2007 as well as GCSE chemistry and our first applied science qualification in September 2008.
