Why do we need to study Science?
Science helps our understanding of the world around us. Everything we know about the universe, from how flowers reproduce to what makes up an atom is the result of scientific research and experimentation. Students of science have shaped our modern world and advances in science have supported human progress throughout history, from the knowledge of energy, matter and gravity to developing vaccines and cutting-edge medicines.
Science is everywhere, it is what makes your car work in the morning, what gives you the energy to walk to school and what makes you grow taller.
The team consists of Head of Science Mrs Gilbert and Head Technician Miss Scovell. There are subject specialists in all three sciences: Miss McKenna (Head of Biology), Mr Lattimer (Head of Physics), Mr Kite (KS3 lead), Mrs Rai, Mrs Ferguson (STEM lead) Mrs Bounds, Miss Shad and science technician Mrs Atkinson. We also work closely with the University of Bedfordshire’s PGCE and school direct teacher training programme and often have trainees working in the department.
Key Stage 3
In Years 7, 8 and 9 students rotate between Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics. In Year 9, after studying a transition module, the students study baseline key concept topics from the GCSE course.
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Year 7 |
Year 8 |
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Knowledge Organisers |
Knowledge Organisers |
Autumn -
particles, cells, forces & animal reproduction |
Autumn -
food & nutrition, combustion, fluids & respiration |
Spring -
mixtures & separation, electricity, muscles & bones, & atoms |
Spring -
the periodic table, light, unicellular organisms & metals |
Summer -
energy, ecosystems, acids & alkalis, & sound |
Summer -
energy, plant reproduction, rocks, earth & space |
Key Stage 4
In Years 10 and 11 students follow the Pearson Edexcel GCSE science courses. Top sets study towards separate sciences (a single GCSE grade in each of biology, chemistry and physics) and the remaining sets study towards combined science (a double GCSE award across all 3 sciences).
Higher tier entries can gain a grade 4 upwards and standard tier entries can be awarded any grade up to a 5. In Year 10, some students also work towards gaining an entry level certificate qualification from Pearson Edexcel in Science.
Enrichment
Clubs
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STEM club (all years)
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Grow @ Goldington - Gardening club (all years)
Trips and Visits
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Year 7 CSI day (Autumn term)
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Year 8 Borrow the Moon (Summer term)
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Year 9 Foster Hill Cemetery combined with geography/history/art/French (Autumn term)
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Year 10 (various) (Summer term)
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Year 11 Bedford Observatory trip (Spring term)