School Zone

Science

The Science Curriculum Area is a dynamic and lively section of the school, with 25 staff who teach across the full 13-18 age and ability range. The members of this team work hard to develop the best opportunities for all students within the school.

In September 2002, the school was designated as one of the first specialist Science Colleges. The members of the Science Curriculum Area are deeply committed to fulfilling the challenging objectives set within the Science College Development Plan, and to developing the scientific ethos within the school.

There is a commitment to Science for All, with every student in Years 10 and 11 following Science for 20% of curriculum time, and Year 9 students following Science for 15%. There are very healthy numbers of A Level students in all three sciences. Results at all levels are well above the national average.

The Key Stage 4 course has been developed in conjunction with our three feeder schools, and builds upon the Key Stage 3 courses that are used throughout DASP (The Dorchester Area School Partnership). Regular meetings are held with our middle school colleagues to develop the schemes of work, agree levels of assessment and share good practice. This partnership system has been characterised as "of National Quality" and is closely linked to The National College for School Leadership.

Students at GCSE follow either the OCR Science double award course or the AQA separate sciences within the 20% curriculum time. Students in the top sets follow a course in which they cover the three individual sciences. This course provides high pace and challenge for the most able students, who respond well to the high expectations placed upon them. All courses are designed to stimulate and motivate our students through a high level of activity in class and by giving relevance to the outside world.

Advanced Level courses are offered in each of the three separate sciences. In Biology and Physics, the AQA syllabus is used, with Chemistry using the modular Edexcel course. All colleagues contribute to the teaching, development and organisation of courses in all key stages. We also offer Chemistry at Higher and Standard level at IB.

Facilities in the Science Area are excellent. There are sixteen laboratories, two prep rooms and an annual capitation of over £40,000. This is of course supplemented by the Science College finances which are very substantial.

This is a very strong Curriculum Area that produces excellent results at all levels. All colleagues work together to ensure the success of our students and the area's continued development and growth.