Science is a compulsory part of the Key Stage 4 curriculum.  We are offering two different possible pathways through KS4 Science: Triple Science and Combined Science.

GCSE study in science provides the foundation for understanding the material world. All students will learn essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. They will gain appreciation of how the complex and diverse phenomena of the natural world can be described in terms of a number of key ideas that relate to the sciences and that are both inter-linked and of wider applications.

Triple Science: GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry, GCSE Physics

These students will take three GCSEs in Science: GCSE Biology, GCSE Chemistry and GCSE Physics. Students follow the AQA Triple Science course. Students will be taught each science by a subject specialist teacher in total 15 lesson a fortnight. Each qualification is awarded a single award, which means students will gain 3 GCSE grades (one for each subject). The final assessments will consist of 6 1 hour 45-minute exams (2 for each science).

Why take Triple Science?

Students who enjoy and are making good progress may opt for Triple Science.Also, if students know that they may wish to study a Science at A Level Triple Science will provide them with a good foundation of knowledge. Students who are aiming for a career in medicine, as a vet, engineer or scientist should seriously consider taking Triple Science.

To choose Triple Science students need to select this on their Guided Choices form as one of their choices.

GCSE Combined Science

For students who do not wish to study Triple Science, they will take Combined Science. Students will follow the AQA trilogy combined science course.

This is the equivalent of two GCSEs. Within their lessons students will cover aspects of Biology, Chemistry, Physics and Science experimental skills. Students will have 10 lessons of science per fortnight. The final assessments will consist of 6 1 hour 15-minute exams (for each science).

Assessment for all GCSEs in Science:

Students will be entered for the examination at one of two tiers:

• Higher tier (9-4)
• Foundation tier (5-1)

Further Education and Career Opportunities:  

Students can progress from the GCSE Combined Science Course to A-Level studies in Biology, Chemistry and Physics, however the Triple Science option will provide further content coverage and an excellent preparation for A-Level studies in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

There are many careers which require qualifications in science. These include all branches of engineering, medicine and health care, veterinary work, numerous industries e.g. chemical, pharmaceutical, food and drink.

Examining Board:

AQA

Contact:

Miss Baddeley