- The KS3 Science curriculum consists of a range of Schemes of Work that cover biology, physics and chemistry modules yearly.
- The Science curriculum also helps learner embedded skills such as Scientific Attitudes, Experimental skills and investigation, Analysis and evaluation, and Measurement.
- All pupils have 2 blocks of hourly lessons of Science weekly; however, booster sessions are created for those who require additional input.
- Teaching staff have the flexibility to choose the appropriate schemes of work in liaison with the Head of Science, to ensure that pupils access a balance curriculum, are challenged appropriate, without compromising learning opportunities.
- In KS4 and 5, we offer Entry Level 1 – 3 Science, Entry 1 – 3 Further Science, GCSE Chemistry, Biology, Physics at both Foundation and Higher tier.
KS3 Scheme of Work Matrix:
| Year 7 | Year 8 | Year 9 | |
| Biology Topics | 7A Cells 7B Reproduction 7C Muscles and bones | 7D Ecosystem 8A Food and Nutrition 8B Plant and reproduction | 8C Breathing and respiration. 8D Unicellular organism |
| Chemistry Topics | 7E Mixtures and separation 7F Acids and Alkalis 7G Particles | 7H Atoms, elements 8E Combustion | 8F Periodic table 8G Metals and their uses 8H Rocks |
| Physics Topics | 7I Energy 7J Electricity | 7K Forces 7L Sound 8I Fluids | 8J Light 8K Energy transfers 8L Earth and space |
Pearson’s Entry Level Certificate in Science (Entry 1-3):
The Pearson Entry Level Certificate in Science is a qualification designed to introduce pupils to the fundamentals of scientific knowledge and inquiry. It provides a solid foundation in key scientific concepts across biology, chemistry, and physics. This certificate is suitable for pupils who may have limited prior knowledge or experience in science and aims to develop their scientific literacy and understanding. The qualification covers topics such as the structure and function of living organisms, chemical reactions, forces and motion, and the Earth and the universe. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical investigations, pupils gain a basic understanding of scientific principles and develop skills in observation, data analysis, and scientific communication. The Pearson Entry Level Certificate in Science serves as a stepping stone for further study or employment in the field of science
Pearson’s Entry Level Certificate in Further Science (Entry 1-3):
The Pearson Entry Level Certificate in Further Science is a qualification designed to build upon the foundational knowledge gained in the Entry Level Certificate in Science. It provides pupils with a deeper understanding of scientific concepts and principles across biology, chemistry, and physics. This certificate aims to develop pupils’ analytical and investigative skills, allowing them to apply scientific knowledge to real-world scenarios. Through practical experiments and theoretical learning, pupils enhance their scientific literacy and critical thinking abilities. The Entry Level Certificate in Further Science serves as a stepping stone for pupils who wish to pursue advanced studies in science or related fields, providing them with a solid foundation for future academic and career success.
AQA’s GCSE Biology, Physics and Chemistry
The AQA GCSE Biology, Physics and Chemistry qualification are offered in two tiers: Foundation and Higher. The Foundation tier is designed for pupils aiming to achieve grades 1 to 5, while the Higher tier is for pupils targeting grades 4 to 9.
- GCSE Biology foundation tier: Pupils cover key biological concepts such as cell structure and function, human anatomy and physiology, nutrition and digestion, gas exchange systems, reproduction, health, material cycles, and genetics. The assessments at this tier focus on recall, understanding, and application of biological knowledge, with an emphasis on practical skills and data analysis.
- GCSE Biology higher tier: Pupils delve deeper into topics such as genetics and evolution, plant structure and function, ecology and ecosystems, human physiology, and the impact of human activity on the environment. The assessments at this tier require pupils to demonstrate a higher level of understanding, analysis, and evaluation. The Higher tier also includes more challenging practical tasks and experimental skills.
- GCSE Physics foundation tier: Pupils explore in-depth subjects including energy changes and transfers, forces and motion, waves, light, electricity, magnetism, and space physics. The assessments at this level demand pupils to showcase a higher level of understanding, analysis, and evaluation. Additionally, the Higher tier incorporates more challenging practical tasks and experimental skills to further enhance pupils’ scientific capabilities.
- GCSE Physics higher tier: Pupils delve deeper into topics such as energy changes and transfers, forces and motion, waves, light, electricity, magnetism, and space physics. The assessments at this tier require pupils to demonstrate a higher level of understanding, analysis, and evaluation. The Higher tier also includes more challenging practical tasks and experimental skills.
- GCSE Chemistry foundation tier: Pupils explore essential topics including the nature of matter at a particle level, atoms, elements, compounds, pure and impure substances, chemical reactions, and energetics. They acquire a foundational understanding of these concepts and develop the ability to apply their knowledge in practical contexts. Assessments at this level prioritize the recall, understanding, and application of chemistry principles, with a particular focus on practical skills and data analysis.
- GCSE Chemistry higher tier: Pupils engage in a more comprehensive exploration of subjects such as the periodic table, materials, Earth and atmosphere, and chemical analysis. The assessments at this level demand a greater depth of understanding, analysis, and evaluation from pupils. Additionally, the Higher tier incorporates more demanding practical tasks and experimental skills to further enhance pupils’ scientific capabilities.
