Science
Staffing of the department
Mr Fisher – Head of Department
Mr Collins – 2ic / Digital Curriculum Lead
Ms Kerr – Teacher of Science / Assistant Headteacher
Ms O’Callaghan – Teacher of Science
Ms Igunbor – Teacher of Science
Miss Kelly – Teacher of Science
Mrs McHale – Senior Technician
“Science and everyday life cannot and should not be separated.”
Rosalind Franklin
Curriculum aim
Students join St Ursulas school with a curiosity about how the world works. We aim to harness this curiosity by equipping the girls with the skills they need to investigate ideas for themselves. Science is taught in a carefully selected sequence, ensuring that pupils develop understanding, giving them the firm foundation they need to pursue a career within Science. Pupils are taught fundamental scientific principles so that they can view the world in a thoughtful way and become the scientists that change the world.
KS3 Curriculum
Students begin their scientific journey by learning what it truly means to be alive, starting at a microscopic level. They then venture into the human body and how our organ systems work in harmony to support life. Students also discover the building blocks of the universe – the elements and how they interact to form the world around us. Early in their time at St Ursulas students also investigate how big the solar system really is and what holds such huge plants together.
We view science like building a beautiful house, students need strong foundations before they can begin to understand the beauty and complexity of the universe.
KS3 Programme of study
Year 7
- Building blocks of life
- Building blocks of the universe
- Forces and the solar system
- Interdependence, classification and lifestyle and diet
- Chemical changes and the earth as a resource
- Electricity and motion
Year 8
- Cellular biochemistry
- Acids and alkali
- Earth cycles
- Waves and electrical circuits
- Biodiversity and evolution
- The periodic table
- Electromagnetism
Year 9
- Meta cognition
- Working scientifically
- Year 9 students are then ready to tackle the challenges of the GCSE
Extra-Curricular Activities
Coding club and our Environmental club provide students an opportunity to explore ideas that they are passionate about in a structured environment focused on developing key skills.
Websites used to stretch student learning
Homework at Key stage 3 is set mainly through the use of evidence based websites such as: