Science

Physics

If you have an inquisitive mind, an active imagination and a thirst for knowledge then Physics is for you.

We follow the AQA B specification which has a more applied approach than other specifications. In the first year we extend topics that were studied at GCSE: waves, forces, circuits, energy, radiation and kinematics. In the second year we start building more specialized knowledge: Quantum phenomena, force fields, thermodynamics, particles and attempt to answer the big questions! All aspects are assessed via examination; one third of which is practical.

An A’ level in Physics opens doors to many traditional and original arenas.

Biology

This course includes a foundation built upon topics such as cell structure and function, transport, and human health and disease. There are many opportunities for practical work in Biology and part of both the first and second year will be spent completing coursework.

Biology complements most combinations.

Chemistry

The course gradually introduces the essential skills that chemists need to understand elements and their reactions. It also develops the core concepts in a manageable and pupil friendly manner enabling students to explore more abstract concepts. The course is assessed at AS level by two written exams and a portfolio of coursework. A similar model is in place at A2.

Chemistry complements Physics, Maths and Biology

Environmental Science

This course was new to the department in 2005. The AS specification is made of three modules all of which are assessed through written exam. The A2 year also has three modules: two are examined and the third is a research project of the student’s choice. The topics studied in the first year are looking at what comprises the environment: the lithosphere, the atmosphere and the different cycles that drive life. One aspect that underlies these ideas is the impact that humans have on the planet. This is the emphasis of the second part of the course: How can these changes be minimized? Are they inevitable?

This course is complemented by studying either Biology or Geography too.

Applied Science

This course is new to the department in 2006. We have started this course in response to the needs of our Applied Science GCSE students. It is not essential that you studied Applied Science in Year 11 but it is important that you can be organized and can work independently on projects. This course can progress to a range of HE courses, e.g. biochemical science, food technology, human physiology, materials science, medical physics, nursing, sports science or any science based course; it prepares pupils to work within the scientific environment e.g. chemical industry, health care, leisure and associated industries, medical and laboratory based science, food and catering industries.

This course is complemented by Health and Social Care, and Sport Studies.

GCSE Astronomy

Have you looked into the night sky and pondered “is that a plane or something strange?” Come to Astronomy and find out. The course runs after school for about an hour and a half each week with a residential observing weekend at Langdon Beck in the winter. In the summer we submit 2 pieces of coursework: one observational and the other modeling and the students sit an exam. Areas of study:

* Planet Earth
* The Moon & the Sun
* The Solar System
* Stars & Galaxies
* Observing Techniques & space exploration