Science
Science impacts all aspects of life in ways in which students may not have even considered before.The Science curriculum aims to ignite student’s curiosity and allows them to gain a better understanding and appreciation of the world around us and how it works. Our curriculum aims to equip students with the knowledge to be able to explain everyday natural occurrences such as ‘Why are plants green?’ or ‘what causes lightning?’ At the same time we encourage students to question the world around them so that their curiosity continues beyond the classroom. Through studying Biology they will gain understanding of living processes that are essential to life in addition to elements of how the body works, health and how the body is able to detect and defend itself against infection. In studying Chemistry they will learn how our planet has evolved over time to allow humans to survive and how we have managed to utilise natural materials for our benefit. Through studying Physics they will gain an understanding of space and the universe. They will gain insight into how electricity and energy behave and are transferred, how we are able to generate energy from both renewable and non renewable sources. They will also learn about the mechanics of how we are able to see and hear. Students will be able to apply their understanding to how Physics plays a role in explaining everyday life such as how roller coasters work, explaining the changes observed when a person skydives and why anything moves and eventually stops.
KS3 Science
All topics have a focus on building experimental, investigative and analytical skills. Different science disciplines are taught in an engaging and challenging way. As students move through KS3, we prepare them to be “GCSE Ready” as well as confident and responsible members of the school and wider community.
Year 7
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 3 |
Working Scientifically Biology 1: Cells & Organisation Chemistry 1: Particles & their behaviour Physics 1: Forces and Space Skills in Science |
Biology 2: Structure & function of Body Systems Chemistry 2: Reactions I Physics 2: Motion & Pressure Skills in Science |
Biology 3: Reproduction Chemistry 3: Earth I Physics 3: Energy Skills in Science |
Year 8
Term 1 |
Term 2 |
Term 3 |
Organisms Forces Earth Working Scientifically |
Energy Matter Ecosystems Working Scientifically |
Electromagnets Reactions Genes Waves Working Scientifically |
KS4 Combined Science
Course | Combined Science Trilogy |
Examining Board | AQA |
Specification | Link |
Why study this subject? |
GCSE Science is designed to engage and challenge all students of all abilities and aspirations. The broad program of study encourages learners to be inspired and challenged and aims to allow them to engage with science in their everyday lives. GCSE science aims to provide an insight into and an experience of how science works through practical work. |
Biology |
1. Cell Biology 2. Organization |
Chemistry |
1. Atomic structure and the periodic table |
Physics |
1. Energy |
Assessment |
At the end of the course, students complete 6 exams. they are: 1. Biology Paper 1 3. Chemistry Paper 1 5. Physics Paper 1 Each written exam: 1hour 15mins and 70 marks. Students can be entered for either the Foundation or the Higher tier. |
Next steps - Careers/courses |
Completion of GCSE science can allow students to continue with further science studies in Level 3 A-Level courses for Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Students can also complete a L3 Applied science course which covers all 3 science areas. |
Suggested links to resources |
BBC bitesize - a summary of key ideas for each topic. Allows students to revise & test
SENECA Learning - For practice questions and learning - https://senecalearning.com/
Kerboodle
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KS4 Triple Science
Examining Board | AQA |
Specification | |
Why study this subject? |
GCSE Science is designed to engage and challenge all students of all abilities and aspirations. The broad program of study encourages learners to be inspired and challenged and aims to allow them to engage with science in their everyday lives. GCSE science aims to provide an insight into and an experience of how science works through practical work. |
Biology |
1. Cell Biology |
Chemistry |
1. Atomic structure and the periodic table |
Physics |
1. Energy |
Assessment |
At the end of the course, students complete a total of 6 exams. Biology GCSE Chemistry GCSE Physics GCSE
Each written exam: 1hour 45mins
|
Next steps - Careers/courses |
Completion of GCSE separate sciences allow students to continue with further science studies in Level 3 A-Level courses for Biology, Chemistry or Physics. Students can also complete a L3 Applied science course which covers all 3 science areas. and many many more |
Suggested links to resources |
BBC bitesize - a summary of key ideas for each topic. Allows students to revise & test
Kerboodle
SENECA Learning - For practice questions and learning - https://senecalearning.com/
|
KS5 Science
Biology
Course | A-Level Biology |
Examining Board | AQA |
Specification | Link |
Why study this subject? |
Biological science is one of the broadest and most important subjects in the world today. Put simply, biology is the study of life. Biology encompasses everything from the molecular study of life processes right up to the study of animal and plant communities. A level Biology is a great choice for people who want a career in health and clinical professions, including medicine, dentistry, veterinary science, physiotherapy, nursing and forensic science. It is also necessary for a degree in any of the Biological sciences which range from neuroscience, genetics, biomedical science, biochemistry, zoology, conservation and marine biology. The skills developed in a Biology A level are also valued in careers within the pharmaceutical industry, biological economics, science publishing, government policy, education and biotechnology.
We understand that the transition from KS4 to KS5 is potentially the most difficult transition that students will ever face in their education which is why at Oaks Park all students are fully supported regardless of their ability to ensure that all students make excellent progress no matter their starting point. Before students join our 6th Form they are provided with extensive transition work to complete so that they get that head start to the course. We have a highly experienced team and take pride in delivering first class lessons so that students have the opportunity to develop transferable skills that will best prepare them not only for exam success but for success at University and beyond.
Students are further supported and enriched by a range of additional opportunities provided to them beyond the classroom such as guest speakers, career talks, seminars, lectures, work experience, workshops such as ‘Operating Theatre Live’ and workshops to support applications for highly competitive courses such as Medicine, Pharmacy and Veterinary Science. |
Year 1 |
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Year 2 |
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Assessment AS- |
2 Exams |
Assessment A-Level |
3 Exams |
Next steps - Careers/HE courses |
Students who study Biology can go on to study an array of courses at University, access funded degrees or apprenticeships.
Studying Biology can lead to a range of careers within Healthcare and clinical professions: Doctor
Other Biological science professions include:
Skills developed through studying Biology are also valued in careers such as: |
Suggested links to resources |
http://www.interactive-biology.com/ https://mathsmadeeasy.co.uk/a-level-biology-revision/ https://www.physicsandmathstutor.com/biology-revision/ http://www.s-cool.co.uk/a-level/ https://www.youtube.com/user/MrPollockBiology/ https://www.primrosekitten.com/ https://senecalearning.com/en-GB/
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Chemistry
Course | A-Level Chemistry |
Examining Board | AQA |
Specification | Link |
Why study this subject? |
Chemistry helps students to develop research, problem solving, mathematical, practical and analytical skills. Chemistry often requires teamwork and communication skills too, which is great for project management.
Chemistry is important and useful in explaining the natural world, preparing people for career opportunities, and producing informed citizens.
Modern research in chemistry can lead to the discovery and pioneering of new technologies and medicines, which benefit the environment, improve human life, and expand our knowledge of the universe. |
Year 1 | Atomic Structure Bonding Amount of Substance Energetics Kinetics Equilibria & Redox Periodicity & Group 2 & Group 7 Introduction to Organic Chemistry Alkanes & Haloalkanes Alkenes & Alcohols Organic Analysis Core practicals: 1-6. |
Year 2 | Thermodynamics Rate Equations & Kp Electrode Potentials Acids, Bases & pH Period 3 Elements Transition Metals Isomerism & Carbonyl Compounds Aromatic Compounds & Amines Polymers Amino Acids, Proteins & DNA Further Synthesis & Analysis Core practicals: 7-12. |
Assessment AS- |
2 Exams |
Assessment A-Level |
3 Exams
|
Next steps - Careers/HE courses |
There are a range of Chemistry-related degrees that students can read at University including: Analytical Chemistry, Biochemistry, Environmental chemistry, Inorganic Chemistry, Organic Chemistry and Physical Chemistry and Polymer and Materials chemistry.
These degrees in turn can lead to a range of careers including: medicine, dentistry, forensic chemistry, geochemistry, biochemistry, R & D management, pharmacy, chemical engineering, petroleum engineering and perfumery to name a few. |
Suggested links to resources |
ChemRevise - For notes and revision summaries - https://chemrevise.org/revision-guides/ A Level Chemistry - For notes, questions and video - http://www.a-levelchemistry.co.uk/
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Physics
Course | A-Level Physics |
Examining Board | AQA |
Specification | Link |
Why study this subject? |
A-level Physics gives you the opportunity to explore the phenomena of the universe and to look at theories that explain what is observed. This subject combines practical skills with theoretical ideas to develop descriptions of the physical universe. You will learn about everything from kinematics to cosmology and many recent developments in fascinating topics, such as particle physics. If you are interested in the limits of space, the beginning of time and everything in between this is the subject for you. Physics is more than a subject – it trains your brain to think beyond boundaries.
We understand that the transition from KS4 to KS5 is potentially the most difficult transition that students will ever face in their education which is why at Oaks Park all students are fully supported regardless of their ability to ensure that all students make excellent progress no matter their starting point. Before students join our 6th Form they are provided with extensive transition work to complete so that they get that head start to the course. We have a highly experienced team and take pride in delivering first class lessons so that students have the opportunity to develop transferable skills that will best prepare them not only for exam success but for success at University and beyond.
Students are further supported and enriched by a range of additional opportunities provided to them beyond the classroom such as guest speakers, career talks, seminars, lectures, work experience, and workshops.​ |
Year 1 |
Measurements and their Errors Particles and Radiation Waves Mechanics and Materials Electricity |
Year 2 |
Further Mechanics and Thermal Physics Fields and their Consequences Nuclear Physics Astrophysics |
Assessment AS- |
2 Exams |
Assessment A-Level |
3 Exams |
Next steps - Careers/HE courses |
Physics is a very useful subject for the majority of STEM (science, technology, engineering and maths) careers and you’ll find physicists everywhere, in industry, transport, government, universities, the armed forces, the secret service, games companies, research labs and more. Physics is especially helpful for jobs that involve developing new technologies, including: engineering, astronomy, robotics, renewable energies, computer science, communications, space exploration, science writing, sports and games technology, research and nanotechnology.
To put it simply, Physics is a highly respected A level in which a good grade in A level Physics demonstrates to an employer that you have analytical and mathematical skills that you can apply to real life situations. There are many possible degree pathways that are suitable after taking A level physics, for example: Engineering, Medicine, Forensic Science, Astronomy, Cosmology, Electronics, Power generation, Finance, Education and many many more. |
Suggested links to resources |
https://www.revisely.co.uk/alevel/physics/aqa/ https://s-cool.co.uk/a-level/physics/ https://www.cyberphysics.co.uk/ https://mathsmadeeasy.co.uk/a-level-physics-revision/ https://www.physicsandmathstutor.com/physics-revision/a-level-aqa/ |
Applied Science
Course | BTEC Level 3 Extended Certificate Applied Science |
Examining Board | Edexcel |
Specification | Link |
Why study this subject? |
An alternative vocational A-level equivalent subject |
Unit 1 | Principles and Applications of Science I (exam) A Periodicity and properties of elements A1 Structure and bonding in applications in science A2 Production and uses of substances in relation to properties B Structure and functions of cells and tissues B1 Cell structure and function B2 Cell specialisation B3 Tissue structure and function C Waves in communication C1 Working with waves C2 Waves in communication C3 Use of electromagnetic waves in communication |
Unit 2 | Practical Scientific Procedures and Techniques (coursework) Content includes: A Undertake titration and colorimetry to determine the concentration of solutions B Undertake calorimetry to study cooling curves C Undertake chromatographic techniques to identify components in mixtures D Review personal development of scientific skills for laboratory work |
Unit 3 |
Science Investigation Skills (exam) |
Unit 8 |
Physiology of Human Body Systems (coursework) |
Assessment |
External assessment: 58% exams Internal assessment: 42% coursework |
Next steps - Careers/HE courses |
Previous students have gone onto the HE courses: Biomedical Science, Forensc Science, Primary Education, Biological Science, Chemical Engineering, Business Econimics, Apprenticeship in nuclear engineering, Law
The following courses are also a possibility; Biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, dental technology, trainee technician in a hospital, drug researcher, medical physics technician, midwifery, paramedic work, sports science, biomedical science, biochemistry, clinical science, life science, pharmaceutical science, computing, healthcare, psychology. |
Suggested links to resources |