Science
Curriculum intent
At Christ Church Secondary School, the Science Department is dedicated to delivering an engaging, dynamic, and inclusive science education that builds curiosity and fosters critical thinking. Our curriculum is rooted in a spiral structure, designed to revisit key concepts in increasing complexity, ensuring students build on prior knowledge. By framing the curriculum around larger, interdisciplinary themes, we aim to inspire pupils to explore science in both a practical and conceptual way.
The Spiral Curriculum Structure
Our science curriculum is designed around three core themes that evolve through all secondary year groups, offering continuity and the opportunity for depth over time. These themes integrate biology, chemistry, and physics in a way that mirrors real-world scientific inquiry, helping students to see the connections between disciplines. This approach allows students to:
Build on Prior Knowledge: Concepts introduced in earlier years are revisited and expanded upon, reinforcing learning and promoting mastery.
Make Connections: By understanding the interrelatedness of scientific ideas, students develop a holistic view of science.
Engage Actively: Thematic learning fosters curiosity and encourages students to explore topics that interest them deeply.
Key Stage 3 (Years 7-9): Laying the Foundations
In Years 7 to 9, students embark on an exciting journey through the fundamental principles of science. Themes such as "Creating a Monster," "Another Earth," and "Feeding the World” provide a cohesive framework for exploration.
Year 7: Introduction to scientific thinking through themes such as Creating a Monster, Survival and Building the Future
Year 8: Deeper exploration of scientific phenomena through themes like 28 Days Later, Another Earth and Concert Producer.
Year 9: Preparation for GCSE studies by studying themes like Outbreak, Feeding the World and New Threats.
Key Stage 4 (Years 10-11): AQA GCSE Science Trilogy
In Years 10 and 11, students follow the AQA GCSE Science Trilogy courses, which are fully integrated into our spiral curriculum.
Combined Science (Trilogy): Covers a broad range of topics across biology, chemistry, and physics, leading to two GCSE qualifications.
Separate Sciences: For those with a keen interest in science, leading to three separate GCSEs in biology, chemistry, and physics.
Practical Work: Emphasis on hands-on experiments and investigations to develop practical skills and scientific inquiry.
Thematic Learning: Continued focus on larger themes, enabling students to connect GCSE content with prior learning.
Exam Preparation: Structured support and revision strategies to ensure students are fully prepared for their examinations.
Join Us on a Journey of Discovery
At Christ Church Secondary School, we are passionate about nurturing a lifelong love of science. Our spiral curriculum, dedicated staff, and enriching environment ensure that every student has the opportunity to thrive.
We look forward to welcoming you to our Science Department.
Learning journey at KS3 & KS4
You can download a copy of this curriculum overview using the link below:
