King James’s enjoys an established reputation for the quality of its Science teaching. We aim to foster a scientific understanding and interest in the world around us. Strong emphasis is placed on the applications of Science, and investigations into ‘real world’ problems are carried out alongside a wide range of other classroom activities. Members of the Faculty have set up innovative link projects with our family of primary schools and we have strong links with both York and Leeds University Education Departments.
Key Stage 3 Science is delivered using resources adapted from the Exploring Science course. The course is designed to develop the strengths of the Key Stage 2 Science curriculum and ensure progression through to Key Stage 4. The course emphasises ‘How Science Works’ and is therefore skills based. Knowledge and content is used as a basis for teaching the skills of scientific enquiry as well as the ideas behind the development of scientific theories. The topics covered are chosen to make Science interesting and inspiring for students. ICT is a common feature of Science lessons at King James’s.
At Key Stage 4 students follow the “21st Century Science” course. About 60% of our students complete a GCSE in Science in Year 10 and may go on to study “Additional Science” in Year 11 This new course allows students to study relevant aspects of Science based on contemporary issues. About 40% of our students study the separate sciences in Biology Chemistry and Physics. Students are taught by well-qualified specialists in Chemistry, Physics and Biology. These courses provide a broad knowledge of Science, whilst providing effective preparation for the many students who choose to study one or more of the separate Sciences at AS/A2 level.
We also offer a BTEC First Level 2 Extended Certificate in Applied Science which gives a two GCSE equivalent qualification and is assignment-based with no formal examinations. Students study aspects of all three Sciences with a vocational emphasis and the course allows students to progress to level 3 BTEC courses in the sciences and engineering.
