Science

Head of Science Mr. D.R. Montague

As one of the core curriculum subjects, Science is studied by all pupils up to GCSE. In the sixth form the science subjects are optional, but have proved popular and successful choices. The facilities in the laboratories are excellent, with a programme of further modernisation (which started with Physics in 2004), enabling a variety of teaching approaches to be adopted in order to cater for individual pupil needs and interests.

Below is a brief summary of Science at Kent College for each age group:

Year 7 and 8

Integrated Science is studied at this level. The National Curriculum KS3 science work schemes are followed, in which the emphasis is on practical work and scientific processes, as well as covering the particular academic requirements for each year group. Wherever possible, each topic covered is approached in an experimental and exploratory manner, backed up by up-to-date equipment (including IT.) Lessons are in laboratories specifically designed for this age group. Electronics is also taught in Year 7. The Heinemann Science scheme is followed, which matches the KS3 National Curriculum requirements.

Year 9

In Year 9, pupils study the three separate sciences (Biology, Chemistry, Physics), taught by subject specialists within the different departments. The KS3 Science tests are taken in May of Year 9. While pupils are primarily being prepared for KS3, the GCSE curriculum is borne in mind, in order to extend some of the topics covered and ease pressure in Years 10 and 11. Towards the end of Year 9, pupils can choose their preferred science route to GCSE. Two optional routes are offered: either the three separate Sciences as the 'Triple Award' scheme, leading to three GCSE grades (one for each Science subject), or, the 'Double Award' scheme, leading to two GCSE grades. The latter choice allows pupils to choose another non-science subject for GCSE.

Year 10 and 11

Guidance from staff is provided so that the most appropriate Science course option mentioned above is made for each pupil. The 'Double Award' covers the core topics of the separate sciences option ('Triple Award'). These core topics are studied to the same depth, but without the need to pursue the further extension topics required for the 'Triple Award' option. For both GCSE options, a total of 80% of the final GCSE score comes from written examinations, and 20% from practical coursework in the form of investigations within each science subject studied. However, in the 'Double Award' scheme we follow, of the 80% from written examinations, 30% is gained by sitting 6 short multiple choice papers based on specific modules during Years 10 and 11. Therefore in this scheme, only 50% of the final mark is awarded from the final written examinations at the end of Year 11.

As well as the mainstream choices there is also the opportunity for pupils to take Electronics to GCSE.

Sixth Form, Years 12 and 13

The normal expectation is a minimum of GCSE grade B in the subject(s) chosen for study. Pupils are taught in small groups, within specialised laboratories fully equipped for this advanced level of study. During Year 12, pupils study for the AS courses examined in June, which are intermediate in standard between GCSE and A Level. Those who wish to pursue the subject further, study it to A Level (now known as A2), in preparation for University entrance. Many post-A Level students progress to highly successful scientific and medical courses, leading to related careers.

Other Science activities

A Science and Technology programme is organised as part of the school 'Activities Week' at the end of the summer term, in which pupils from all age groups take part, comprising visits, talks and other events. There is also a Junior Science Club, Conservation Group and other opportunities for furthering pupils' enjoyment and experience of Science. In November, a team of Year 8 to 10 pupils are taking part in the First Lego League competition hosted by the University of Kent. Also a small team of Year 12 Science students are involved with the Engineering Education Scheme, researching into and developing solutions to a 'real-life' project provided by Pfizer Plc. This should prove very exciting.

Perhaps this comment summarises the department's strength and popularity:

“ I think science is fun. We do lots of experiments instead of just reading it in a book. It is taught well and I have learned a lot.”
Year 8 pupil