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Science

Science explains the world we live in. Every day we hear news stories that are underpinned with scientific facts, discoveries and information. At Lydiard Park Academy we believe that it is essential that our pupils have a thorough understanding of Science, ensuring they can understand and make sense of their world, and can develop into scientifically literate young people that can make informed decisions about their future.

KS3 - Integrated Curriculum (involves Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics)
KS4 – Combined Science (AQA Trilogy – 2 GCSEs) including equal content of Biology, Chemistry and Physics OR Separate Science (3 GCSEs – one each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics)
KS5 – Biology (A-Level), Chemistry (A-Level) and Physics (A-Level)

If you would like any further information regarding the work we do in our faculty please do not hesitate to contact us. You can find members of the faculty team here.

Science (KS3)

At KS3 we alternate between Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics. It is our intention to develop a range of practical skills and techniques throughout the topics and to provide appropriate challenge to all pupils. Our curriculum is founded on 5 key concepts that underpin our understanding of science: energy, particles, cells, forces and interdependence.

Our aims at KS3 are to:

  • Engage and enthuse pupils in the learning of Science
  • Develop a range of skills to allow pupils to investigate scientific phenomena
  • Establish a thorough foundation of knowledge and understanding of key scientific principles.

At the end of year 8 pupils follow one of 2 pathways:

  • The majority of pupils further develop their skills and bridge the gap to GCSE. They will then follow the GCSE Combined Science pathway.
  • Some pupils will follow the Separate Science pathway.

Science (KS4)

At KS4 pupils continue to develop an understanding of all 3 sciences.

Pupils follow one of 2 pathways at KS4:

  • The majority of pupils further develop their skills and bridge the gap to GCSE. They will then follow the GCSE Combined Science pathway
  • Some pupils will follow the Separate Science pathway.

GCSE Combined Science

We follow the AQA GCSE Combined Science (Trilogy) specification. This includes equal parts of all three major sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and results in the award of 2 GCSEs. The different science topics are taught alternately. Throughout the course we will ensure that practical skills continue to be developed and pupils are challenged. Pupils will be assessed by end of topic tests and through demonstration of their practical work including analysis of data and evaluation.

GCSE Separate Sciences

We follow the AQA GCSE Separate Science specifications. This includes equal parts of all three major sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) and results in the award of 3 GCSEs, one for each science. The different science topics are taught throughout KS4 and include more content within each topic compared to Combined Science. Throughout the course we will ensure that practical skills continue to be developed and pupils are challenged. Pupils will be assessed by end of topic tests and through demonstration of their practical work including analysis of data and evaluation.