Science and Computing

  • Miss Sandiford – Curriculum Leader
  • Mr Evans – Assistant Headteacher
  • Mrs Isherwood – Senior Head of Year and Teacher of Science
  • Miss Patel – Science Key Stage 4 Facilitator
  • Miss Barrett-Chapman – Teacher of Science
  • Mrs Schofield – Science Coordinator and Teacher of Science
  • Mr T Hiorns – Teacher of Science
  • Ms Cairns – Science Technician
  • Mr Ali –  Computing & Business Facilitator
  • Mr Gately – Senior Head of Year and Teacher of Computing 
  • Ms M McDonnell – Teacher of Science

Science

Key Stage 3

Students will reinforce and build on existing knowledge, whilst developing deep and rich knowledge of the “key facts”. 

In addition, students will continue to develop literacy, numeracy, and scientific practical skills and wider scientific roles.

Year 7 and Year 8

Examples of Key Facts sheets

Year 7 and 8 Teaching Plan

Year 9

Students in year 9 will strengthen skills in working scientifically. 

Structure and routines will also be a focus to ensure good preparation for weekly assessments. 

Students in year 9 deepen their understanding and enhance their scientific skills. Throughout the year students expand on the key stage 3 curriculum. They delve deep into scientific ideas through investigating themes such as ‘Building Blocks,’ ‘Homes’ and ‘Theme Parks.’ Students are stretched and challenged beyond the key stage 3 curriculum in year 9 to ensure that they are well prepared for starting key stage 4 in year 10. 

Key Stage 4

In years 10 and 11 students will be encouraged to think widely about topical Science issues. They will interleave prior content through their ‘Do Now’ opportunities and also through their weekly preparation for assessments. Their detailed understanding of the Science specification will allow them to prepare thoroughly for their final examinations and, with the support of their teachers, students will become independent learners equipped with good exam techniques and study skills.

GCSE Combined Science

Students in Year 10 undertake the new AQA GCSE Combined Science. The subject content is split into Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics which are rotated over Years 10 and Year 11. The course is linear, which means that students will sit all of their external examinations at the end of Year 11. There is no controlled assessment in this GCSE, however students will be assessed on their practical skills through a number of required practicals during the course. This qualification is worth 2 GCSEs.

GCSE Biology, Chemistry and Physics

Students in our top sets study for three Science qualifications. The subject content is split into Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics which are rotated over Years 10 and Year 11. The course is linear, which means that students will sit all of their external examinations at the end of Year 11. There is no controlled assessment in this GCSE, however students will be assessed on their practical skills through a number of required practicals during the course. This qualification is worth 3 GCSEs.

Computing

Computer Science

Key stage 3

Year 7

The year 7 Computer Science course aims to bridge the gap between KS2 and KS3. The students will be introduced to a number of important concepts ranging from E-Safety, the basic use of software, the importance and use of algorithms in computers via Kodu programming. Students will also study the use of binary and students will be introduced to the basics of computer networks where they will explore the various topologies and be able to determine the best network to use for a given situation. This programme of study is designed to help students understand what makes a computer work.

Year 8

Students will build upon their knowledge from Year 7 and start to implement their knowledge of algorithms into real programs using the basic programming language of Scratch. Students will also explore some of the key hardware and software components found within a modern computer system. They will then move onto some basic HTML web development and explore some of the key issues that organisations have to consider when looking at cyber security.

Year 9

Students will be introduced to the popular industry standard Python and learn some basic coding skills using this software. They will then move over to exploring data modelling using spreadsheet software and then finish the year practising some app development skills by making their very own mobile phone application. Students will also be given the opportunity to be involved in out of school competition to further enrich their knowledge and skills required for computer science.

Key Stage 4

Year 10

Students will learn about the fundamentals of programming during year two of the course. Here, they will be reintroduced to the concept of algorithms and their importance in computer systems and programming. As well as understanding and writing algorithms, students will learn the basic and some more advanced features of Python. This will prepare students for the undertaking of the 20 hour NEA, replicating the process a programmer would go through in a real-life project. Students will also be given the opportunity to be involved in out of school competition to further enrich their knowledge and skills required for computer science.

Year 11

Students will return to, and deepen their knowledge of all the key concepts of computer systems and programming. The third year of the course is a real opportunity to review all content covered in the previous two years and become exam ready. Students will also be given the opportunity to be involved in out of school competition to further enrich their knowledge and skills required for computer science.

BTEC Digital Information Technology

Year 1

Year 1: The first year of the DIT course will introduce the students to the specification and the 3 main components that make up their final grade. Students will understand what a user interface is, the many different versions that exist and their design principles, how they help different users and then use this knowledge to help them plan and create a Graphical User Interface for a given case study.

Year 2

Year 2: The second year of the DIT course will introduce the students to the idea of business data and data modeling. Students will understand the difference between data and knowledge, how data is collated and then interpreted using spreadsheet software. They will then use this knowledge to manipulate data and create a dashboard using spreadsheet software and its many tools. Students will also learn the importance of data backup and security as well as the many forms of communication, business management and collaboration software that are available and its many benefits and potential drawbacks. Additionally, students will spend time preparing for their final examination

GCSE Business

Year 10

The Year 10 Business course is designed to provide students with a fundamental understanding of the dynamics involved in setting up and organising a business. Through the course, students will learn about the stakeholder theory, business aims and objectives, and the critical factors to consider when selecting a suitable business location.

By studying these core topics, students will be well-prepared to enter the world of work and contribute to a wide range of business organisations. In addition to acquiring theoretical knowledge, the course offers valuable opportunities to develop key skills such as ICT, Maths, teamwork, communication, as well as building confidence and interpersonal skills.

Overall, the Year 10 Business course offers a comprehensive introduction to the world of business and equips students with the skills and knowledge they need to succeed in their future careers.

Year 11

The Year 11 Business course provides a comprehensive overview of important topics in the business world, including the use of technology, business ethics, globalisation, organisational structures, recruitment and selection, staff training, motivation theories, and business marketing. By studying these topics, students will develop a deeper understanding of the businesses they may work for or manage, as well as the key drivers and inhibitors that impact the business environment.

In addition to these core topics, the course also covers important financial concepts such as the various sources of finance available to businesses, the importance of cash flow, and how to forecast it. By understanding these key financial principles, students will be better equipped to make informed business decisions. Finally, the course culminates in exam preparation, ensuring that students have the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in their assessments.