Head of Department: Mr C Macrae

Second in Department: Mr A Mitchell

Our approach to the Science curriculum

The Science curriculum at St Mary’s College is designed to engage and challenge students to reach their full potential. Students study a wide range of scientific concepts throughout Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 and use investigative practical work to develop their understanding of complex scientific concepts.

Opportunities for enrichment trips, clubs and activities are also provided to further inspire the scientists of the future.

Key Stage 3

The KS3 science curriculum has been designed ‘in house’ to meet the requirements of the National Curriculum and covers the key concepts of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Cell Biology and Organ Systems, Nutrition and Digestion, Genetics and Evolution, Atoms, Elements and Mixtures, Chemical Reactions, Space, Energy and Forces are just some of the concepts students will be able to investigate.

Key Stage 4

Students continue to develop their understanding of scientific concepts and build their knowledge and skills at Key Stage 4. Students will study either AQA Combined Science or AQA Separate Sciences. Both of these routes provide students with the skills and knowledge to progress to studying Science further at Key Stage 5 and beyond.

Key Stage 5 (16-19 qualifications)

A broad range of qualifications are offered at Key Stage 5, students are able to follow traditional A levels in AQA Chemistry, AQA Physics, EDEXCEL Biology.

Students can also follow a more vocational approach with the Pearson BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Science. This course is designed to build the skills and knowledge in a vocational context and includes assessment through both examination and coursework.

How you can find out more about the Science curriculum:

Syllabus materials KS4: https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science

Syllabus materials KS5 (Chemistry / Physics): https://www.aqa.org.uk/subjects/science/as-and-a-level

Syllabus materials KS5 (Biology): https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/home.html

Syllabus materials KS5 (Applied Science BTEC): https://qualifications.pearson.com/en/qualifications/btec-nationals/applied-science-2016.html

Faculty Leader contact: cmacrae@smchull.org