Science

Science Documents

“Science is the pursuit and application of knowledge and understanding of the natural and social world following a systematic methodology based on evidence” – The Science Council 2009

 At Kingsbridge Community College we are committed to providing a stimulating, engaging and intellectually challenging learning environment to enable all our students to develop scientific consciousness. We aim to give all students a strong understanding of the world around them whilst acquiring specific skills and knowledge to help them to think scientifically, to gain an understanding of scientific processes and an appreciation of the uses and implications of science-based issues that may affect their own lives, the direction of society and the future.

At Kingsbridge scientific enquiry skills are embedded in each topic the students study and these topics are revisited and developed throughout their time at school. This model allows students to build upon their prior knowledge and increases their enthusiasm for the topics whilst embedding this procedural knowledge into the long-term memory. All students are supported to develop and use a range of skills including observations, planning, taking measurements, using equipment, carrying out investigations, drawing conclusions and evaluating, as well as being encouraged to become independent learners in exploring possible answers for their scientific based questions.

We place our main emphasis on developing solid scientific knowledge at KS3 by following a practical-rich curriculum which introduces skills and key concepts, which allows students to become confident and able Scientists. Skills introduced at KS3 are embedded at KS4 and further refined at KS5.

Our KS3 curriculum is designed to engage and enthuse our learners whilst building up those important Scientific skills. Some topics covered at KS3 build on knowledge learnt in Primary school, whilst others are new. All of our KS3 topics are designed to introduce pupils to STEM careers and build solid foundations before they embark on their GCSEs at KS4. Specialist vocabulary for all topics is taught and built throughout the units, and effective questioning to communicate ideas is developed.

Students at KS3 are assessed throughout every cycle on both knowledge and practical skills. At KS4, pupils will complete end of cycle tests and cumulative assessments throughout the years. At the end of KS4, the course is assessed terminally by AQA and pupils are awarded GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy) worth 2 GCSEs or 3 separate science GCSE’s in Biology, Chemistry or Physics.

Post GCSE students have the option to pursue science either an A- level or in the vocational context of a Level 3 BTEC course. Both routes are extremely popular at Kingsbridge and students have amazing opportunities to pursue their passion in science post GCSE with many students going on post 6^th form to study Science. Outside of the classroom these opportunities continue with students having chances to be involved in science clubs, Royal Institute master classes, Marine Champions groups, Youth STEM awards, trips to CERN and much more.