Science
Our Science curriculum is designed to ignite curiosity, foster critical thinking, and develop a deep understanding of the natural world. We aim to equip students with the scientific knowledge and skills they need to question, explore, and make informed decisions about the world around them.
We provide an inclusive and ambitious curriculum that supports all learners - regardless of background or prior attainment - to develop as confident scientists. Through practical investigation, theoretical study, and real-world application, students learn to think analytically, work collaboratively, and communicate their ideas effectively.
By the end of Key Stage 4, students will be able to:
- Understand key concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics and apply them in familiar and unfamiliar contexts
- Plan and carry out scientific investigations, analysing data and drawing evidence-based conclusions
- Use scientific vocabulary and mathematical skills to explain processes and solve problems
- Evaluate the impact of science on society, the environment, and technological advancement
- Develop the confidence to question evidence, challenge assumptions, and think independently
Our intent is to prepare students for further study, scientific careers, and active participation in a world shaped by science and innovation.
Curriculum overview
Key Stage 3
Students follow a broad and balanced science curriculum that builds foundational knowledge and skills across biology, chemistry, and physics.
Year 7 topics:
- Laboratory safety
- Cells and organisation
- Electricity
- Metals and non-metals
- Acids and alkalis
- Ecosystems
- The Earth and the universe
Year 8 topics:
- Simple chemical reactions
- Acids and alkalis
- Periodic table
- Ecosystem interdependence
- Photosynthesis
- Organisms
This stage also includes preparation for the transition to GCSE, with a focus on scientific literacy, practical skills, and extended investigations.
Key Stage 4
Students follow either the Separate Sciences (Triple Science) or Combined Science: Trilogy pathway, aligned with AQA, Edexcel, or OCR specifications.
Separate Sciences (GCSE Biology, Chemistry, and Physics):
- In-depth study of each discipline
- Greater emphasis on practical work and extended content
- Leads to three separate GCSE qualifications
Combined Science (Trilogy):
- Balanced coverage of biology, chemistry, and physics
- Two GCSEs awarded
- Suitable for a wide range of post-16 pathways
Topics include:
- Biology: Cell biology, infection and response, bioenergetics, homeostasis, inheritance, ecology
- Chemistry: Atomic structure, bonding, chemical changes, energy changes, organic chemistry, analysis
- Physics: Energy, electricity, particle model, forces, waves, magnetism, space (Triple only)
All students complete required practicals and are assessed through terminal exams at the end of Year 11.
Courses offered
- GCSE Biology, Chemistry, and Physics (Separate Sciences)
- GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy
Enrichment opportunities
We offer a range of enrichment activities to extend students’ learning beyond the classroom and nurture a passion for science. These include:
- STEM Club: Hands-on experiments, engineering challenges, and collaborative projects
- Science Week: Themed events, guest speakers, and interactive workshops
- Educational visits: Trips to science museums, universities, and research centres
- Competitions: Participation in national and regional science contests such as the CREST Awards and the Big Bang Fair
- Careers in Science: Talks from professionals in medicine, engineering, environmental science, and more
These opportunities help students see the relevance of science in the wider world and inspire future study and careers in STEM fields.