Science
Head of Department: Bronwyn McMahon
Members of Department:
- Fahima Akther
- Shuhela Begum
- Mary Dushime
- Rukshana Haque
- Josh Kyme (2ic)
- John Mulholland
- Nazia Wild
- Will Custodero
- Shamima Islam
- Owen Parker (KS5 Coordinator)
- Shameem Pavel
- Ramla Hussein
- Marwa El-Damanawi (Deputy Headteacher)
Science Technicians:
- Adriana Manzo-Andrade
- Geetha Pillai
- Preshetha Karre
- Muzamil Qaddous
The study of Science allows us not only to understand and interact with the world around us on an individual level but also to contribute to solving some of the major problems facing mankind. Knowledge and application of Science can help problems such as famine, disease and climate change. Our vision is to provide our students with the skills and experiences necessary to be successful in our evolving world.
Key Stage 3
The programme of study follows the new National Curriculum guidelines covering aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Teaching places a lot of emphasis on practical and creative thinking skills as well as literacy and numeracy. The KS3 curriculum allows pupils to access fundamental knowledge and skills to support attainment at Key stage 4. Pupil attainment is assessed throughout each topic by end of unit tests, homework & classwork activities, and extended writing tasks.
Key Stage 4
Teaching helps pupils to develop curiosity about the natural world, provides an insight into working scientifically and enables pupils to appreciate the relevance of science in their everyday lives. Entry Level Science, Combined Science and the Separate Sciences are offered at KS4. Pupil progress is monitored through classwork and homework activities, end of unit tests and mock exams.
Key Stage 5
The department follows the OCR A courses in Biology, Chemistry and Physics and encourages pupils to develop and demonstrate a deep appreciation of the skills, knowledge and understanding of scientific methods.
Teaching enables pupils to develop competence and confidence in a variety of practical, mathematical and problem solving skills. Pupil progress is monitored through classwork and homework activities, end of unit tests and mock exams.
The department also offers a Level 3 BTEC Extended Diploma in Applied Science. Teaching enables pupils to develop laboratory competency to a high standard, knowledge of a broad range of Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics, as well as an understanding of how to interpret and write academic text.
Pupils also have many opportunities to interact with industry professionals. BTEC Nationals are assessed using a combination of internal assessments, which are set and marked by teachers, and external assessments which are set and marked by Pearson.
Curriculum Overview
Enrichment
To support, encourage and enthuse pupils in their study of science, the department:
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Dissection club - open to KS3, meeting weekly, dissecting plants, invertebrates, small invertebrates,organs and animal droppings
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STEAM (Students Teach Everything At Morpeth) club - KS5 students run fun STEM activities for KS3 students and help out with Science homework
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Talks on careers and vocational trips for KS5
