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Introduction  

Tasks engage students using numerous approaches including practical investigations, compiling and evaluating evidence from different sources, using models to describe scientific processes, and communicating contemporary issues with a variety of audiences. 

Staff help students develop meta-cognitive approaches to their learning opportunities and scaffold reviewing techniques in preparation for the variety of assessment opportunities. This helps students to become more independent learners in preparation for their desired post 16 education route. 

Science is linked through numerous cross-curricular enrichment activities including:

• Science Masterclasses for the Gifted and Talented
• Year 7 Health Day
• Investigative skill development days
• Murder Mysteries
• Bloodhound kit car building
• Visits from top authors to develop imaginative writing about Science ideas
• Architecture Design Challenges
• Abstract Art Sculptures
• INSPIRE Primary Science clubs
• Engineering and Robotics using LEGO

and numerous trips to local further and higher educational establishments…

The Science department consists of five laboratories equipped with interactive whiteboards.

Two recently refurbished laboratories have school networked computers.

The department is particularly successful and is meeting and exceeding expectations, both in terms of innovative teaching and learning techniques, developing assessment for learning for diagnosis of performance for further improvement and in achieving consistently high rates of progress for all of our students over a sustained period. As we trial and develop new approaches to the new specification, we continue the process of evaluation and improvement.

The Science department consists of eight dedicated members of staff who build on the everyday experiences of students to develop independent thinkers with the perseverance and enthusiasm to achieve their potential.