Science

Miss L Wren - Head of Science

Aims of the Science Department

• To offer a pathway through Science which is tailor made to the needs of the individual
• To pursue links with local primary school students to enhance engagement in STEM activities
• To provide a well balanced Science education that is accessible by all

Science Staff for 2011-2012

• Miss L. Wren- Head of Department
• Mr M. Beardsworth
• Mrs A. Belcher- Laboratory Technician
• Miss L. Bradshaw
• Miss K. Patel
• Mrs J. Smith- First Director
• Mr T. Watts

Structure of the Science Department

• 5 full time and 1 part time teaching staff
• 1 full time lab technician
• 5 fully equipped labs with fixed projectors
• AQA Science A followed by GCSE students
• BTEC Level 2 in Applied Science offered
• 3 class sets of laptops

The Science Department has a full complement of specialist teachers who deliver a variety of courses across the Key Stages. We use a thematic approach with Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 students can either follow a traditional GCSE course with both Double and Triple Award GCSEs available and we have recently introduced the BTEC in Applied Science Level 2.

The Science Department is also leading a STEM project with local primary schools to visit THS and use our facilities over a number of weeks. We are engaging our feeder schools with STEM activities before they start with us.

Key Stage 4 Options:

Triple Award GCSE

This gives students the opportunity to get three separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This route is particularly suited to high achieving students who may want to do A-Level science. To take this option, students must be achieving level 6 in year 9. The course is 75% exam based and 25% controlled assessment (which includes a practical element).

Double Award GCSE

This gives students the opportunity to study Biology, Chemistry and Physics without using one of their option choices. They will be awarded 2 GCSEs that combine the results of these studies. Students who wish to study A-Level science can also take this option. The course is 75% exam based and 25% controlled assessment (which includes a practical element).

Level 2 BTEC in Applied Science

Depending upon student progress, this award is worth at least two grade C GCSEs. Students can get the equivalent of A grade GCSEs also. This course is 100% coursework and due to the differing nature of the traditional GCSE course it would not be recommended for students wishing to pursue science A-Levels. Although the course content still follows the Key Stage 4 Programme of Study, as exams are not taken, students would find it difficult to do A- level examinations without the preparation of the GCSE course. This does not mean that science cannot be followed at a higher level as students can opt to take a variety of courses at college e.g. The Level 3 BTEC in Forensic Science which is the equivalent of A-Levels and accepted by many universities.