Science is all around us, from the tiny cells that make up our bodies to the powerful forces that shape our planet. The science curriculum delves into these fundamental concepts, fostering a love of science and equipping students with the knowledge and skills to navigate the fascinating world around them.

Key Concepts: Building Blocks of Knowledge runs throughout key stage 3 and 4.

• Cells: The curriculum starts with the basic unit of life - the cell. Students explore the structure and function of cells, laying the groundwork for understanding biological processes.
• Interdependence: We don't exist in isolation. The curriculum explores the delicate balance of interdependence within ecosystems, highlighting how living things rely on each other and their environment for survival.
• Particles: Everything we see is made up of tiny particles called atoms. Students delve into the world of particles, understanding their composition and arrangement, which determine the properties of matter.
• Energy: The ability to do work! The curriculum explores different forms of energy, their transformations, and the principle of conservation. Students learn how energy fuels all processes in the natural world.
• Forces: Invisible forces shape our world. Students explore different types of forces, like gravity and electromagnetism, understanding how they cause objects to move or change shape.

INTENT

The science curriculum goes beyond memorising facts. It aims to:

• Spark Curiosity: Foster a sense of wonder and a desire to understand and respect the natural world, igniting a lifelong passion for science.
• Develop a Strong Foundation: Build a comprehensive understanding of core scientific concepts across biology, chemistry, and physics – with opportunities to revisit and reviewing past learning with the aim improving student confidence and resilience.
• Nurture Inquiry Skills: Equip students with the tools of scientific inquiry. Students learn to ask questions, design experiments, analyse data, and draw evidence-based conclusions and ultimately take responsibility for their own learning.

IMPLEMENTATION

Learning science shouldn't be dull! The curriculum utilises a variety of engaging activities to cater to diverse learning styles:

• Hands-on Experiments: Students actively engage in scientific discovery through practical activities that reinforce concepts learned in class.
• Real-World Case Studies: Applying science to real-world scenarios helps students see the relevance of scientific principles in everyday life.

In key stage 3 students’ study three units per year, each unit includes include a biology, chemistry and physics topic in each. At the end of unit an assessment is undertaken, and time given for improvement work. These units are ordered to encourage students make link between topics and empower them to understand the fundamental concepts in science.

In key stage 4, students study science 5 hours per week (7 hours for triple science). The course is structured so as to re-enforce concepts introduced in key stage 3 and allow regular revisiting of content.

The assessment is carried out at the end of key stage 4, students can enter combined science (two GCSEs) or separate science (a GCSE for biology, chemistry and physics), both at higher or foundation tier. For all tiers of entry there are 6 exams; biology, chemistry and physics.

IMPACT

A well-designed science curriculum has a lasting impact:

• Exam Success: Students are well-equipped to excel in their AQA GCSE Science exams, demonstrating a strong understanding of the scientific concepts tested.
• Deeper Scientific Understanding: Students develop a solid grasp of scientific concepts, preparing them for further science qualifications or simply fostering a lifelong curiosity about the natural world.
• Life-Long Skills: The curriculum hones critical thinking, problem-solving, and analytical abilities - valuable assets for success in any field. Students learn to approach problems with a scientific lens.
• Informed Citizens: By understanding the scientific world, students are better equipped to make informed decisions about their health, the environment, and the impact of science and technology on society.
• Careers: Science provides a foundation for many science-related and unrelated careers such as: doctor, vet, physiotherapist, chemist, beautician, plumber, nurse, architect, surveyor, engineer…plus many more.

The science curriculum, with its focus on foundational knowledge, inquiry skills, and real-world applications, empowers students to become scientifically literate individuals. It equips them to explore the wonders of the natural world, tackle challenges with a scientific mindset, and make informed decisions about their future and prepare students for their future career.