Years 7, 8 and 9

In years 7 and 8, students study science in three one hour lessons per week. In year 9 this increases to four one hour lessons per week. Each teaching group is taught in separate biology, chemistry and physics lessons. In year 7 students are taught in mixed-ability form groups. Students are placed into sets in years 8 and 9. Assessment is achieved by means of regular end-of-topic tests, practical investigations and extended written work. Students begin the formal study of GCSE material towards the end of year 9.

Key Stage 4

At Key Stage 4, students are placed in sets on the basis of their progress in year 9. All year 10 students study the AQA Science course leading to a GCSE award. They are taught in four one-hour lessons per week. In year 11, most students study AQA Additional Science leading to a second GCSE science award. Some students study 3 separate GCSEs in biology, chemistry and physics, in six lessons per week in years 10 and 11. A small number of students opt out of further study of science after completing the GCSE science course in year 10.

Key Stage 5

At Key Stage 5, the faculty offers AS/A2 courses in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.