Science

All pupils study Science from Year 7 to Year 11.

At the beginning of Year 7, pupils take a test to discover what they already know about Science so they can be placed in appropriate teaching groups. They study a different subject each term and take short tests to determine levels for Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In July they take an overall test which we use to assess and monitor their progress and to see how many pupils have the ability to start GCSE Core Science early.

The format of Year 8 is the same as Year 7, with three end-of-subject tests and an overall test. The early-entry GCSE pupils take three external multichoice GCSE exams and three internal tests, which means they complete 50% of their GCSE by the end of Year 8.

In Year 9 all pupils not taking GCSE early, start the BTEC First Certificate in Science, which is equivalent to two GCSEs and is 100% coursework-assessed; early-entry GCSE students complete their Core Science course.

In Years 10 and 11, pupils choose to study either four or ten lessons of Science in a fortnight. They may finish the BTEC First Certificate and continue to BTEC First Diploma (worth four GCSEs) or continue with Additional and Separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Both Psychology and Astronomy GCSE are available, if numbers permit.

In Year 12 and 13, the A-level equivalent BTEC National Diploma in Biology is available, as are A-levels in Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Psychology.