Science (Y7-13)

The Science Department at Blessed William Howard consists of specialist teaching staff who deliver high quality biology, chemistry and physics lesson to students in key stages 3-5. We are well supported by laboratory technicians and deliver regular practical learning opportunities to develop our students as inquisitive learners who are confident in working independently to solve problems. The department has 8 laboratories, all equipped to modern specification to provide a wide range of opportunities for pupils to conduct experiments.

Student attainment is evaluated throughout the year based on a mixture of in-class tasks, homework, exams and practical skills assessments. In Years 10 to 13 we incorporate full mock exams to provide students with the opportunity to develop the time management and revision skills required for their formal GCSE and A-Level examinations.

Subject staff

Mrs L Harris - Curriculum Leader

Mrs C Gibbs - Curriculum Leader of Biology

Mr R Cozier - Curriculum Leader of Chemistry

Mr D Kitley

Miss M Ball

Mrs R Broomhall

Mr T Dudley

Mr J Pryce

Mr C Jones

Curriculum Overview

At Key Stage 3 all students study the national curriculum for science, building on the knowledge and skills they have learnt at primary school. Thematic units of study, designed by BWH staff, allow students to learn core scientific principles, develop their understanding of 'How Science Works' and develop confidence working in small groups to use laboratory equipment such as Bunsen burners and microscopes.

At GCSE, students are timetabled separate classes with specialist teachers in Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Students study all three sciences to cover the national curriculum. They will then be examined in either the AQA Trilogy Science (double award) course or AQA Separate Science (triple award) in the Year 11 summer GCSE examinations. Further information can be found on the AQA website, which provides past papers and syllabus overviews (www.aqa.org.uk).

At Blessed William Howard we offer science A-levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, all following the AQA specifications. Each course includes a required practical endorsement.

Years taught:

Y7-13

Specification:

GCSE - AQA Trilogy (Combined) science

GCSE - AQA (separate) Biology, Chemistry, Physics

A-Level - AQA Biology, Chemistry, Physics

Curriculum Rationale

Curriculum Mapping