Science
Intent Statement
Science pathways 1 & 2
Provision for all students:
We aim to deliver a high-quality science education, providing the foundations for understanding the world through the study of biology, chemistry and physics. We believe that students should be encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They should be encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.
Throughout our curriculum we want students to:
- develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding.
- develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries
- to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.
The science offer for pathway 1 & 2 students is specifically designed to support those with SEND to fully access the national curriculum at Key Stages 3 & 4. We achieve this via a spiral, engaging and practical project-based course matched to the National Curriculum.
Planning and sequencing towards cumulative knowledge and skills:
To support students on pathway 1 & 2, the science department ensure that the necessary foundations of understanding are developed before moving on to the next level of learning.
We use a differentiated programme of study for KS3 students, working on engaging science projects, which allows them to develop their science knowledge, skills and understanding from Key Stage 1 – 3.
KS4 students on pathway 1 & 2 develop their knowledge, skills and understanding by studying the ASDAN short science course level 1 mapped to the KS4 National Curriculum. Students with more ability can further this by achieving the level 2 Asdan short course or the Btec Level 1 award in Applied Science.
Acquisition and independent application of knowledge, skills and abilities:
The science curriculum for pathway 1 & 2 students is specifically designed to be engaging and accessible for students with Special Educational Needs. The curriculum is increasingly demanding and less scaffolded as students move through the key stages to develop independent application of knowledge and skills and to support transitions through the school and beyond.
Accreditation pathways and preparation for Education, Employment and Training and adult life:
Students are offered the full national curriculum for science from KS3 to KS4. Qualifications offered include ASDAN short course science level 1, progression to level 2 or the Btec Level 1 award in Applied Science, as supported by the Sector Skills Council (SSC) and the Standards Setting Body (SSB).
The Asdan short course is designed to support progression to GCSE science or Btec award/ certificate / diplomas.
The intended destinations for learners successfully achieving these qualifications include: GCSEs and/or A levels, Diplomas, apprenticeships, supported employment and independent living.
Science pathways 3 & 4
Provision for all students
We develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. We develop understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science through different types of science enquiries that help them to answer scientific questions about the world around them. Students are equipped with the scientific knowledge required to understand the uses and implications of science, today and for the future.
KS3: We offer a personalised curriculum with lessons designed to match learners’ needs and the National Curriculum. We encourage aspirational learning that incorporates elements of the GCSE curriculum designed to support students with transitions back to mainstream school. Practical tasks are designed to engage SEMH learners. Learning includes use of different contexts to maximise students’ engagement with and motivation to study science.
KS4: We also offer a personalised curriculum with lessons designed to match learners’ needs. We provide two offers at GCSE to meet learners’ needs (Biology single and Combined science). Practical tasks designed to engage SEMH learners. Learning includes use different contexts to maximise students’ engagement with and motivation to study science.
Planning and sequencing towards cumulative knowledge and skills:
KS3: Our Curriculum is mapped with clear progression opportunities. Aspects of GCSE science for our learners are included in their curriculum to ensure that they achieve accreditation at KS4. An ASDAN course will be offered to year 9 students. A clear sequence of knowledge and concepts is in place to support learning.
KS4: Our Curriculum is mapped with clear progression opportunities. A clear sequence of knowledge and concepts is in place to support students in understanding higher order content. Clear content structure addresses the importance of building up an extended specialist vocabulary. Psychology GCSE will be developed for 2020/2021 to broaden our offer and increase engagement and attainment.
Acquisition and independent application of knowledge, skills and abilities:
KS3: We use task plans in every lesson and plan clearly structured lessons and units to develop students’ knowledge. There is coherent progression to from KS3 to KS4. We use a spiral curriculum model that is personalised and refined to our students’ needs. Our curriculum is designed to support students’ developing knowledge and skills to ensure the transition from KS3 to KS4 is successful and students are able to access the more challenging curriculum. We develop students’ independence when using scientific concepts, carefully planning to ensure they are prepared for the next stage of the science course.
KS4: We plan clearly structured lessons and units to develop and build on students’ knowledge. We regularly give students the opportunity to apply their acquired skills and knowledge independently, in order to have an embedded understanding of all aspects of the science curriculum.
Accreditation pathways and preparation for Education, Employment and Training and adult life.
KS3: National curriculum taught years 7-9. Exploring science curriculum. Aspirational learning that incorporates elements of the GCSE curriculum designed to support students with transitions back to mainstream school. KS3 national curriculum matched to GCSE content so that knowledge and retention is higher whilst maintaining the KS3 offer.
KS4: GCSE offer given to all students. Students progressing from KS3 have had opportunities to develop their understanding of the GCSE offer through highly tailored curriculum that enhanced their understanding of key topics and supports the literacy needed to successfully accredit at KS4. Students pathways are reviewed termly to ensure they are on track to accredit and are prepared for post KS4.
