Science
Bishop Challoner Science department is constantly evolving. We are dedicated to improving the educational opportunities for our pupils through stimulating lessons and also, as part of our Science College Specialism, we are involved in improving science education for pupils and staff across the region. We are fortunate to have highly qualified specialist teachers in all three sciences including teachers with vocational experience of science.
Qualifications Available from September 2010
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Key Stage 4
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Key Stage 5
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GCSE Biology
GCSE Chemistry
GCSE Physics
GCSE Core Science
GCSE Additional Science
BTEC Level 2 First Certificate Applied Science
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A-level Biology
A-Level Chemistry
A-Level Physics
BTEC Level 3 National Award Medical Sciences
BTEC Level 3 National Certificate Medical Sciences
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Our students are taught the new 'how science works' curriculum which embeds key scientific skills and ideas within exciting and relevant topics, such as investigating the different departments in a hospital or preparing for a round the world trip. In line with the new government assessment initiative students are completing 'assessing pupil progress' tasks and these are an integral part of our assessment process. This exciting new curriculum provides our pupils with an excellent foundation for key stage 4.
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All our students follow one of three different pathways at key stage 4. These include the Edexcel GCSE in 360 Science which is a modular course where assessment includes external examinations, internal assessment tests and practical work. Alternatively our students study the Edexcel BTEC Level 2 First Certificate syllabus which is a vocational course assessed through 100% coursework and allows those students better suited to this method of study to attain better grades. The three pathways are outlined below:
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Studying three separate GCSE's in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. In 2008 and 2009 100% of students taking this option obtained at least three C grades and over 80% achieved a B or higher. This option provides an excellent base for studying sciences at A-level and beyond and all three subjects are taught by specialists in that subject.
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Studying two GCSE's in core and additional science. In 2009 84% of pupils achieved A*-C in core and additional science. This option provides pupils with a good science education which can be follow through to A-level or provides a good base for other qualifications post 16, such as BTEC Nationals, or for training and employment.
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Studying the BTEC Level 2 First Certificate in Applied Science which is worth the equivalent of two GCSE's in science. In our first year offering this course 100% of student obtained at least a pass and some went on to get a merit. The vocational nature of this course allows a more practical approach to learning and appeals to students who suit a coursework-based style of assessment.
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- In years 12 and 13 we currently offer Chemistry, Biology and Physics to AS Level and then to A2 Level. For the sixth year running we achieved 100% pass rate at A2 Level in all three subjects. these subjects are all taught by specialists in their subject, Many of our students go on to study science and medically-related degress at university.
- Starting in September 2010 we will be offering a BTEC National in Medical Sciences. This is a specialised work-related qualification which has been developed to provide preparation for university or employment and will be offered as a national award or national certificate.
Assessment will take place through a range of coursework activities e.g. presentations, log books of practical work and written reports. This is an ideal course for someone looking to secure a place at university to train for a job within the health sector, for example, nursing or midwifery. Alternatively this course would suit someone interested in working in a research laboratory in industry, the NHS or University.
We run the following extra-curricular clubs:
- Chemistry Club
- Aeronautics Club
- Astronomy Club
- Robotics Club
- Homework Club
