Please see the individual Science categories - Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Department description: Students follow a general science course covering work required by the National Curriculum in Science. The aim of the department is to cover all of the work required for the Key Stage 3 tests in Years 7 and 8, allowing more times to be spent on GCSE work.

The units of study covered in Year 7 are:

• Cells and classification;
• Organ Systems;
• Reproduction;
• Adaptations to the environment;
• Particle theory;
• Acids and Bases;
• Solutions;
• Simple chemical reactions;
• Energy transfers and resources;
• Electricity;
• Forces;
• The Solar System.

In Year 8, pupils study:

• Respiration;
• Health and Disease;
• Ecology and Inheritance;
• Compounds and Mixtures;
• Metals;
• Rocks;
• Environmental chemistry;
• Magnetism;
• Heating and cooling;
• Light;
• Forces.

These topics are coordinated with those taught in Year 9.

Pupils also learn investigation skills by designing and carrying out long practicals. Pupils' progress is monitored throughout the year by common assessments and the end of year examination. Prior to sitting their SATs examination in Year 9, pupils sit a mock exam and then follow a series of revision lessons as preparation. Booster lessons are also available after school for selected pupils to allow them to achieve their potential. Currently about two-thirds of our students achieve the highest possible grade.