Science
In Key Stage 3, students explore the foundations of biology, chemistry and physics through practical investigation and curiosity about the natural world. They study cells, ecosystems and human body systems; atoms, reactions and the periodic table; and forces, energy, waves and space. Learning connects science to health, sustainability and everyday technology, while developing skills in observation, measurement, data analysis and safe laboratory practice. By the end of Year 9, students understand how living systems function, how matter behaves and how physical forces shape the universe, preparing them to think scientifically and apply evidence-based reasoning to real-world problems.
At Key Stage 4, most students follow the AQA Combined Trilogy, while some pursue separate sciences, deepening knowledge across biology, chemistry and physics. Students build on KS3 learning to study cell biology, infection, bioenergetics and homeostasis; atomic structure, bonding, quantitative chemistry and chemical change; and energy, electricity, particles and radiation. Practical investigations, mathematical analysis and evaluation of evidence develop scientific confidence and independence. By the end of Year 11, students can explain complex biological systems, predict chemical reactions and apply physical laws to unfamiliar situations—leaving equipped for further scientific study and informed decision-making about health, technology and the environment.
In A Level Biology, students explore life at every scale—from biological molecules, cells and DNA to ecosystems and biodiversity. They investigate transport, immunity, genetics, evolution and the impact of human activity on the natural world, supported by demanding practical work and statistical analysis. Learning develops precision in scientific thinking, ethical awareness and the ability to interpret complex data. By the end of Year 13, students understand how biological systems interact and change over time, preparing them for university study and careers in medicine, research, environmental science and biotechnology.
In A Level Chemistry, students uncover the structure of matter and the principles governing chemical change. They study atomic structure, bonding, energetics, equilibria, redox chemistry and the behaviour of organic molecules, alongside advanced analytical techniques such as spectroscopy. Practical investigation, mathematical reasoning and evaluation of evidence build accuracy and independence. By the end of Year 13, students can explain and predict chemical behaviour in complex systems, preparing them for pathways in medicine, engineering, pharmacology and the wider chemical sciences.
In A Level Physics, students develop a deep understanding of the laws that govern the universe, from motion, forces and energy to electricity, waves, quantum physics and astrophysics. Through mathematical modelling, experimentation and problem-solving, they learn to test ideas, interpret data and explain phenomena ranging from subatomic particles to cosmic structures. By the end of Year 13, students think with precision and creativity, ready for university study and careers in engineering, technology, space science and advanced research.
View the KS3 Science curriculum map
View the KS4 Science curriculum map