Key Stage 3

At Key Stage 3, students will study the disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity – all students will be taught the essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Students will be encouraged to develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. As well as developing an understanding of science, students will progress in the social aspects of learning through group investigations and practical experiments.

Year 7 

Students in year 7 follow the AQA Key Stage 3 Science Syllabus which incorporates all 3 strands of Science (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and is related to a different theme each half term. This content will prepare students for year 8 and 9 by providing them with the knowledge and skills to be confident in becoming proficient young scientists.

Year 8, 9 and Class 10 

Students in year 8 and 9 build on their knowledge and skills following the AQA Key Stage 3 Science Syllabus. Alongside this, students will complete AQA Entry Level Certificate (ELC) in Science. This is designed to develop student’s confidence in both their theoretical concepts and their practical skills. The year 8 and 9 curriculum is specifically designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills, which are crucial to being successful young scientists at GCSE. Students will be assessed through Externally Set Assignments (ESA) and Teacher Devised Assignments (TDA).

Key Stage 4

Year 10 and 11 

At Key Stage 4, students study GCSE Biology, which is a singular GCSE qualification. This is assessed at the end of Year 11 in 2 examination papers (1 hour 45 minutes each). Students complete 10 required practical experiments as part of this course which is assessed internally alongside additional practical’s to further students understanding of specific concepts. This course covers various topics from the disciplines of Biology and builds on concepts from their KS3 curriculum.

Useful GCSE Revision Notes

B1-B4 Paper 1 Home Learning Pack

B5-B7 Paper 2 Home Learning Pack