Science

Science is taught to all students in years 7 – 11 including MLD statemented students with in-class support by specialist staff. Students come into the school in 6 mixed ability groups and are assigned within two parallel bands. During the autumn term, year 7 students are set by ability, following a baseline assessment. This continues across the whole of each year in 8, 9, 10 and 11.

In general, no classes are larger than 30 in size, and the lower ability groups tend to be much smaller so that staff can effectively cater to their needs. Teachers are expected to teach at all levels and abilities within Key Stages (KS) 3 and 4. Continuity of teaching is considered important, and timetable permitting, it is expected that teaching staff will retain their teaching groups throughout KS3.

The schemes of work used throughout KS3 are based on the new national curriculum and Framework for Science and are extensively supported by a variety of differentiated resources such as ‘Collins Science’ and the use of a wide range of ICT resources.

At KS4, students have the opportunity to study OCR GCSE Science B, 'Gateway Science' and OCR GCSE Science B 'Additional Science. Students reaching the required standard at the end of KS3 have the option to study separate sciences at GCSE level. The students will be entered at Foundation or Higher level, according to ability and teacher assessments.

The department also offers BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Applied Science, BTEC Extended Certificate in Applied Science and BTEC Diploma in Applied Science which is a vocational and work related qualification.

At Post-16, students have the opportunity to study OCR AS/A2 level in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Chemistry and Physics are currently taught within our local consortium of schools. Biology AS/A2 is taught solely by Coppice staff, at Coppice. BTEC Applied Science Level 3, is now available to those students wishing to extend their BTEC Level 2 studies, stretching them to the equivalent of AS level over two years and is also taught at Coppice.

The Science department is managed by a Curriculum Area Leader (CAL) supported by an Assistant Curriculum Area Leader (ACAL) and four experienced teachers. They are supported by one full-time Science Technician. There are six well-equipped laboratories, five of which have interactive whiteboards or a Network linked projection system that allows for an extensive range of teaching materials to be accessed and used with students. Staff can also book a mobile ICT network computer trolleys for student use during the lesson. The department is committed to developing its ICT resources to enhance the teaching and learning of Science.

All teachers are expected to take responsibility for setting challenging targets for their teaching groups, producing lessons plan that effectively use a variety of teaching methods with a strong emphasis on practical work. The schemes of work are designed so staff can regularly review progress through formative and summative assessments with appropriate feedback, to ensure all students reach their potential.

High standards are encouraged throughout with a particular emphasis on laboratory safety at all times. Discipline within the department is good and follows the school discipline procedure, which is supported by senior members of staff.

Click here for more information on the exams taken at Coppice.