Sciences

In Year 10, students begin their preparation for the IGCSE chemistry examination. The chemistry curriculum in our Sciences Department is designed not only to maximize students’ potential for excellent IGCSE grades but also to introduce them to additional material that is both engaging and intellectually enriching. Students embark on a scientific journey to acquire a comprehensive understanding of chemical theories and practices. They delve into the study of matter, learning about atoms, elements, and compounds, and engage in stoichiometry to grasp the quantitative relationships in chemical reactions. The curriculum emphasizes the development of experimental skills, teaching students to handle variables and work safely in a laboratory setting. Pupils are encouraged to use scientific data and evidence to solve problems, while also discussing the limitations of scientific methods. Communication is key; students learn to articulate their findings using scientific terminology and conventions. The curriculum also highlights the beneficial applications of scientific knowledge for both people and the environment, fostering a sense of responsibility and enjoyment in the scientific discovery process. Topics such as electrochemistry, chemical energetics, and reactions are explored, alongside studies of acids, bases, salts, and the Periodic Table. Metals, environmental chemistry, organic chemistry, and analytical techniques round out a curriculum that is as exciting as it is educational, preparing students for future scientific endeavours.

In Years 11 to 13, our STEM school offers an enriching A-Level Chemistry curriculum that goes beyond exam requirements, aiming for true mastery. It is built around key concepts like atoms and forces, experiments and evidence, patterns in chemical behaviour and reactions, chemical bonds, and energy changes. These are carefully introduced and developed, forming a solid foundation for understanding chemistry. We emphasize practical experiments, allowing students to gain first-hand experience and build models and theories. Our approach encourages students to identify patterns, predict properties, and design new substances, sparking their excitement for chemistry. We focus on understanding chemical bonds and energy changes in reactions. Students gain a comprehensive understanding of these concepts, develop confidence to apply their knowledge in new situations, and acquire the vocabulary to discuss their subject conceptually. Our goal is to equip students with a level of mastery that will serve them well in higher education and inspire them to become ethical and innovative scientists.

Our Year 10 biology curriculum is an exciting journey of discovery that celebrates the wonders of the natural world and human innovation. It is designed not merely to guide students towards excellent IGCSE results but to ignite passion in students, fostering a deep appreciation for the intricate workings of life. Students acquire scientific knowledge and understanding of theories and practices, from the characteristics and classification of living organisms to biotechnology and genetic modification. They develop a range of experimental skills, including handling variables and working safely, and learn to use scientific data and evidence to solve problems while discussing the limitations of scientific methods. The curriculum emphasizes effective and clear communication using scientific terminology, notation, and conventions. It also highlights the ethical aspects of science, teaching students that the application of scientific knowledge can benefit people and the environment. It promotes environmental conservation and learning from nature, inspiring students to understand and respect the delicate balance of ecosystems. The biology curriculum covers a wide range of topics, including plant and human nutrition, diseases and immunity, gas exchange, respiration, excretion, coordination and response, drugs, reproduction, inheritance, variation and selection, organisms and their environment, human influences on ecosystems, and biotechnology and genetic modification. The aim is for students to not just learn science but to enjoy it, developing an informed interest in scientific matters that supports further study. Through this curriculum, students are equipped to navigate the world with a scientific mindset, ready to contribute to the preservation of our planet and the advancement of our society.

Our Year 11 to 13 biology curriculum is an immersive educational experience that not only prepares students for outstanding success in A-Level biology examinations but also inspires a passion for and mastery of the subject. The curriculum is designed to cultivate innovative, ethical scientists ready to contribute to the world. It builds confidence, especially in applying knowledge and skills in new situations, and equips students with the vocabulary to discuss their subject conceptually and show how different aspects link together. The curriculum fosters a level of mastery that helps students enter higher education. Key concepts such as cells as the units of life, biochemical processes, DNA as the molecule of heredity, natural selection, organisms in their environment, and the importance of observation and experiment are carefully introduced and developed. These concepts underpin the course and enrich teaching and learning, providing students with a robust and evidence-based conceptual understanding of biology. This approach prepares students for a career as innovative, ethical scientists, ready to make a positive impact on the world.

Progression in Scientific Studies: The domains of general science, biology, and chemistry provide a perfect stage for students to immerse themselves in their Personal Passion Projects, an essential part of their educational voyage at our STEM school. This entails going beyond the confines of the curriculum, conducting experiments, exploring new concepts, and forging innovative paths under the guidance of our dedicated and highly skilled staff. Students are encouraged to design their own projects, formulate hypotheses, and make ground-breaking discoveries while applying professional scientific research skills.