“The important thing is to never stop questioning.” – Albert Einstein

Intent

At Stanley High School we look to build up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, whilst encouraging students to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. We deliver a high-quality science education introducing students to a broad range of scientific disciplines which sparks curiosity and a sense of wonder, which is crucial for developing a lifelong interest in science. We provide students with the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity, and all students are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science.

We want our students to:

• develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics
• develop an understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science, through different types of scientific enquiry that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them
• develop and learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry, problem-solving skills and mathematical skills, both in the laboratory, in the field and in other environments
• develop their ability to evaluate claims based on science through critical analysis of the methodology, evidence and conclusions, both qualitatively and quantitatively

Key Stage 3 (KS3)

We have a key focus on emphasizing scientific inquiry and practical skills at KS3 which encourages students to be inquisitive and develop the habit of asking questions independently and seeking answers through experimentation and observation. Teaching students to analyse data, interpret results, and base conclusions on evidence helps develop their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. Encouraging curiosity and exploration by engaging students in intriguing phenomena and hands-on experiments fosters a love for science and an interest in discovery and builds resilience in our students.

“The most exciting phrase to hear in science, the one that heralds new discoveries, is not ‘Eureka!’ but ‘That’s funny…'” – Isaac Asimov

Key Stage 4 (KS4)

At KS4, delving deeper into scientific concepts and theories allows students to specialize and gain a more profound understanding of specific scientific fields, preparing them for further education. By providing students with a thorough grounding in science, KS4 prepares them for A-levels, BTECs, and other post-16 education pathways, and inspires them to pursue scientific careers. Teaching advanced topics and emphasizing the practical applications of scientific knowledge helps students understand the relevance of science in technological advancements and everyday life. Focusing on critical thinking, problem-solving, and evidence-based reasoning at KS4 equips students with lifelong learning skills that are valuable in all aspects of life and various career paths. Exposure to cutting-edge scientific topics and technologies prepares students to engage with ongoing advancements in their future careers.

At Key Stage 4 students will follow :

• AQA | Science | GCSE | GCSE Science – Combined science

Students who have opted for separate science will follow:

• AQA | Biology | GCSE | GCSE Biology – Separates Biology
• AQA | Chemistry | GCSE | GCSE Chemistry – Separates Chemistry
• AQA | Physics | GCSE | GCSE Physics – Separates Physics

The Key Stage 4 curriculum is planned and sequenced from the AQA GCSE scheme which has been mapped against the National Curriculum for Key Stage 4. From experience, this has enabled coverage of the course in an appropriate and effective manner. Additionally, to this, resources are provided through use of some online platforms which are extensive and allow students to have access to digital textbooks, Podcasts and additional support resources.

Implementation

At Stanley High School we deliver a high-quality science education which provides students with the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity, and all students are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. We look to build up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, whilst encouraging students to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena.

The science department consists of seven members of teaching staff who are all subject specialist teachers, and the department is supported by one science technician.

Curriculum hours over the 2-week timetable:

• Year 7 – 6 hours per fortnight
• Year 8 – 6 hours per fortnight
• Year 9 – 7 hours per fortnight
• Year 10* – 8 hours per fortnight
• Year 11* – 8 hours per fortnight

* Students who have opted to study separate science (GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics) receive an additional 5 hours of science in addition to the standard quota of lessons.

Impact

Student progress is monitored using both formative and summative assessments. Students are assessed throughout lessons using a variety of assessment techniques and the staff are skilled in adapting their teaching to respond at a fast pace to rectify any issues. Students will complete a mid-term assessment, which will assess their knowledge of the topics that they are studying, and the skills taught throughout the scheme of work. At the end of each half term, students will sit a summative assessment which will take a holistic look at the progress of the child. Each assessment has a range of different types of questions asked for example: multiple choice, structured, closed short answer, and open response questions. These assessments are purpose-built at both Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 to enable our students to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding whilst also gaining the confidence in how their GCSE examinations will look.

These formal assessments are used to track pupils’ progress through the curriculum. However, no single assessment is used in isolation and the regular formative assessment of classwork and homework is also taken into consideration.

All forms of assessment are used to identify which students require additional support or challenge, and which areas of the curriculum may require further reinforcement, and they are also used to inform future changes to schemes of work. In KS4, assessments can provide useful evidence in deciding on final tiers of entry for the GCSE exams.

By the end of their science learning journey at Stanley High School, we want our students to have enjoyed their science learning experience and to realise that science is for everyone, and it can provide answers to many everyday questions people ask.

Finally, and most importantly, we want our students to leave our school with the scientific knowledge and skills required to make a positive contribution to society.

Suggested post-16 pathways and possible careers

Science is a highly valued subject that nurtures the development of transferable skills essential for the workplace. Science provides a foundation for many science-related and unrelated careers such as: doctor, vet, physiotherapist, chemist, beautician, plumber, nurse, architect, surveyor, engineer, farmer, sports trainer, lawyer, journalist, computer games developer, marine biologist and electrician, to name but a few. A strong knowledge of at least one of the sciences will be highly desirable if not essential.

Students will leave Stanley High School with the knowledge and skills that would allow you to study A Levels / BTEC diplomas in any area of Science.

Extra curricula opportunities

• Science ambassadors – All about being involved in developing and improving student experience within science.
• STEM Educational visits – more recently to GA Pet Food partners and Unilever.
• Local Science competitions – Faraday challenge, Unilever project, Cross trust science challenges and quizzes.
• STEM Club
• External visits and demonstrations – Operating Theatre Live, UrbanFarm
• Sci-Fi Film Club

Science Learning Journeys