Science

Aims

The Science Department aims to stimulate curiosity, enthusiasm and enjoyment of science and to enable children to acquire sufficient knowledge and understanding to:

• become confident citizens in the technological world, able to take or develop an informed interest in scientific matters
• recognise the usefulness, and limitations, of scientific methods in aspects of their lives
• appreciate that applications of science may be beneficial and detrimental to the individual, the community and the environment
• be suitably prepared to continue their study of the Sciences where appropriate

Organisation

Head of Department – Mr N Chapman

Year 3 and 4 pupils are taught Science by their class teacher in their own classroom. Years 5 to 8 pupils are taught entirely by subject specialist teachers, and from Years 6 they are taught in our purpose-built teaching laboratory which is fully equipped with modern experimental resources, interactive whiteboard and visualiser. The laboratory and equipment are also used by the younger year groups when necessary.

Content

The syllabus follows the National Curriculum and is broadly based on the QCA Schemes of Work with adjustments for enhancement and enrichment activities. Much of the work is practical and experimental allowing the children to develop skills in scientific enquiry. Year 7 and 8 also follow the Common Entrance Syllabus, and is taught as the three separate subjects – Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Click here to view a copy of the ISEB Common Entrance Syllabus for Science

Trips and Events

Each year the Science Department plans a series of special events as part of National Science and Engineering Week, often in conjunction with the Maths and Technology Departments. Pupils participate in stimulating experimental activities; this has included the design and build of a bridge, before testing the force it can withstand, glue making and testing, forensic science, bird ringing and a genetics workshop. There have also been visits from Science Made Simple and Quantum Theatre Science.

The Department is part of the Teacher Scientist Network at the John Innes Centre. As part of this link a Research Scientist comes into school to talk about their work and the Department is allowed the loan of specialist equipment.

Recent Science trips have included Minsmere Nature Reserve and the University East Anglia. There are currently plans to visit the exhibitions on display as part of Norwich Science Festival.

The children also regularly take part in locally organised Science competitions including the Norfolk Schools Science Fair, The Salter’s Chemistry Festival.