Our key stage 5 (KS5) curriculum is designed to develop and enhance subject-specific knowledge within the fields of natural, chemical, and physical sciences. The KS5 offering has a focus on deepening the appreciation, and knowledge of each science. Mathematics is intrinsic to developing an understanding of the concepts and ideas involved and so we have structured our curriculum to develop competence and confidence in mathematical processes to aid understanding of theory, particularly in the physical sciences. As with KS3/KS4, we teach pupils to relate classroom-based lessons to the physical world around them. Teaching with context allows pupils to develop the ability to take scientific theory and apply it to their own daily lives. Having this within a pupil’s skill is essential for a scientist. Not only does this skill help recall and reinforce past schema but it also allows pupils to fully understand and appreciate the scientific advances that are rapidly and continually developing all around us. A range of additional methods are used to encourage recall and retention of knowledge, including the application of multiple platforms. Pupils are regularly challenged to explain prior learning and make links to new learning. A current theme that is woven through all key stages is developing a scientist’s ability to ask questions and remain curious about natural phenomena. We continue this theme at KS5 by expecting pupils to complete practical investigations independently. Laboratories are stocked with glassware and equipment that pupils are guided toward selecting and using independently. This allows pupils to fully appreciate the importance of the scientific method and offers pupils a chance to evaluate, not only the data obtained through experiment but also how they conducted the investigation. The curriculum also offers pupils a chance to contribute to industry through a work-based placement. Here, pupils will have the chance to develop their understanding of industry and begin to appreciate the myriad of careers available through the application and pursuit of scientific knowledge. This is augmented by a keen staff body possessing a range of real-world scientific careers before teaching. Year 12 Term 1 • Measurements and their errors • Use of SI units and their prefixes • Limitation of physical measurements • Estimation of physical quantities • Particles and radiation • Particles • Electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena Term 2 • Waves • Progressive and stationary waves • Refraction, diffraction, and interference Term 3 • Mechanics and Materials • Force, energy, and momentum • Materials • Electricity • Current Electricity Year 13 Term 1 • Further mechanics and thermal physics • Periodic Motion • Thermal Physics • Fields and their consequences • Fields • Gravitational Fields • Electrical Fields Term 2 • Capacitance • Magnetic Fields • Nuclear Physics • Radioactivity • Turning Points • The discovery of the electron • Wave-particle duality • Special relativity Term 3 • Summary
Minimum of 5 x 9 - 4 at GCSE and average grade of Grade 4 or above across all subjects GCSE grade 6 or above in Physics or 6-6 Combined Science and grade 6 or above in Maths
Summative Assessment • Three summative assessment points per year – 1 per term. • Each summative assessment will be standardized across the subject. • Summative assessments will be moderated within and across departments. • Summative assessment will test students’ progress through the curriculum and identify any knowledge gaps.
About Education Provider
Region | North West |
Local Authority | Liverpool |
Ofsted Rating | Good |
Gender Type | Girls |
Address | Speke Road, Woolton, Liverpool, L25 7TN |
Our key stage 5 (KS5) curriculum is designed to develop and enhance subject-specific knowledge within the fields of natural, chemical, and physical sciences. The KS5 offering has a focus on deepening the appreciation, and knowledge of each science. Mathematics is intrinsic to developing an understanding of the concepts and ideas involved and so we have structured our curriculum to develop competence and confidence in mathematical processes to aid understanding of theory, particularly in the physical sciences. As with KS3/KS4, we teach pupils to relate classroom-based lessons to the physical world around them. Teaching with context allows pupils to develop the ability to take scientific theory and apply it to their own daily lives. Having this within a pupil’s skill is essential for a scientist. Not only does this skill help recall and reinforce past schema but it also allows pupils to fully understand and appreciate the scientific advances that are rapidly and continually developing all around us. A range of additional methods are used to encourage recall and retention of knowledge, including the application of multiple platforms. Pupils are regularly challenged to explain prior learning and make links to new learning. A current theme that is woven through all key stages is developing a scientist’s ability to ask questions and remain curious about natural phenomena. We continue this theme at KS5 by expecting pupils to complete practical investigations independently. Laboratories are stocked with glassware and equipment that pupils are guided toward selecting and using independently. This allows pupils to fully appreciate the importance of the scientific method and offers pupils a chance to evaluate, not only the data obtained through experiment but also how they conducted the investigation. The curriculum also offers pupils a chance to contribute to industry through a work-based placement. Here, pupils will have the chance to develop their understanding of industry and begin to appreciate the myriad of careers available through the application and pursuit of scientific knowledge. This is augmented by a keen staff body possessing a range of real-world scientific careers before teaching. Year 12 Term 1 • Measurements and their errors • Use of SI units and their prefixes • Limitation of physical measurements • Estimation of physical quantities • Particles and radiation • Particles • Electromagnetic radiation and quantum phenomena Term 2 • Waves • Progressive and stationary waves • Refraction, diffraction, and interference Term 3 • Mechanics and Materials • Force, energy, and momentum • Materials • Electricity • Current Electricity Year 13 Term 1 • Further mechanics and thermal physics • Periodic Motion • Thermal Physics • Fields and their consequences • Fields • Gravitational Fields • Electrical Fields Term 2 • Capacitance • Magnetic Fields • Nuclear Physics • Radioactivity • Turning Points • The discovery of the electron • Wave-particle duality • Special relativity Term 3 • Summary
Minimum of 5 x 9 - 4 at GCSE and average grade of Grade 4 or above across all subjects GCSE grade 6 or above in Physics or 6-6 Combined Science and grade 6 or above in Maths
Summative Assessment • Three summative assessment points per year – 1 per term. • Each summative assessment will be standardized across the subject. • Summative assessments will be moderated within and across departments. • Summative assessment will test students’ progress through the curriculum and identify any knowledge gaps.