Science
What Is Special About This Subject?
Without curiosity, Science would not exist. It gives you the knowledge and concepts needed to understand and care about the world. Science fosters creativity and will change your child’s future.
What Is The Learning Journey Through This Subject?
Key Stage 3 - Science
WHAT WILL I LEARN IN THIS SUBJECT?
At Key Stage 3 we offer a unique scheme of work, tailored to the needs of our students and designed to foster creativity.
Each term is based around a big question and explores the elements of Biology, Chemistry and Physics that would be involved in the topic.
For example, one term students look at the science involved in surviving on a desert island, whilst in another term they then look at the science involved in setting up a colony on Mars.
HOW IS IT ASSESSED?
Each term your son will be assessed on the scientific knowledge they have gained. This will take the form of mini assessments during the term, which your son will receive feedback on in lesson and given the opportunity to improve their work.
In science your son will be provided with a minimum threshold score out of 45 marks.
At the end of each term they will sit a 45 mark test, in which their target is to achieve their minimum threshold.
WHERE DOES THIS TAKE ME?
Students have many opportunities with a Science education. From KS3 students enter the world of GCSE’s where they will study GCSE Combined Science. This provides them with the opportunity to progress to Sixth Form BTECs or A Levels in Biology, Chemistry or Physics, while also opening doors in vocational courses and further education.
Key Stage 4 – GCSE Combined Science
WHAT WILL I LEARN ON THIS COURSE?
At Key Stage 4 we follow the AQA Combined Science trilogy specification, with students alternating each term between Biology, Physics and Chemistry. Students are entered into either foundation or Higher tier science, based on their ability and their attitude to learning.
Your son will study the sciences in ways that help them to develop curiosity about the natural world, gives them an insight into how science works and which enable them to appreciate its relevance to their everyday lives.
The full course is taught over 2 years, with Fundamental PPE’s at the end of Y10, full exam style PPE’s in Y11 and their final GCSE exams taking place at the end of year 11.
HOW IS THIS QUALIFICATION TAUGHT AND ASSESSED?
The full course is taught over three years with the full assessment taking place at the end of year 11.
WHAT QUALIFICATION WILL I ACHIEVE?
Two GCSE’s in Combined Science from AQA.
WHERE WILL THIS QUALIFICATION TAKE ME?
- A levels in Biology, Chemistry and/or Physics
- Level 3 vocational qualifications in science, e.g. BTEC Level 3 in Applied Science
- Employment in a science-based industry where an apprenticeship may be possible.
HOW CAN I FIND OUT MORE?
Email Mr Ibbertson (Director of Science) via ibbertsonr@ntc.kent.sch.uk
or Mrs Bajaj (2nd in charge of Science) via bajah@ntc.kent.sch.uk
