Introduction

From September 2006 all schools have been introducing the new Science curriculum. The majority of students in current year 10 will be expected to attain two Science GCSE's - one in Year 10 and another in Year 11. The majority of students in year 9 will supplement their science GCSEs with a third option in year 11.

 

Aims of the Course

To identify the activities and experiences candidates will find in everyday life and link these to scientific ideas and their implications for society. This course provides the opportunity to acquire scientific skills, knowledge and understanding necessary for life as an informed citizen.
 

Course Structure and Content

Year 9:

Red band students have 9 lessons per fortnight and will complete triple science studies over three years to give them five science GCSEs in Core Science, Additional Science and separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Blue band students have 6 lessons per fortnight and will leave with two science GCSEs in Core and Additional Science. In year 11, they may pursue AS general science, GCSE Astronomy or GCSE Human Health and Physiology to give a third science GCSE.
Alternatively, some blue band students have been selected to study OCR Nationals – a uniquely examination free course that is assessed through ongoing tasks. On completion, this will give them two to four science GCSEs.
Green band students will study BTEC first science. This allows them to achieve the equivalent of two GCSE C grades and above. It is a portfolio based course with internal assessment.
 

Year 10:

Red band students are all taught triple science over 9 lessons per fortnight. They will leave with five science GCSEs in Core Science, Additional Science and separate Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
Blue band students have 6 lessons per fortnight and will leave with two science GCSEs in Core and Additional Science.
Alternatively, some blue band students have been selected to study OCR Nationals – a uniquely examination free course that is assessed through ongoing tasks. On completion, this will give them two to four science GCSEs.
Green band students will study BTEC first science. This allows them to achieve the equivalent of two GCSE C grades and above. It is a portfolio based course with internal assessment. They have 6 lessons per fortnight.

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