In Year 7, science is taught in themed units, which include forensics, the science of cooking and extinction. The aim is to introduce science skills in an engaging way, using topics that appeal to young people.
In Years 8 and 9, the National Curriculum is followed, with targeted pathways for students of differing aptitude and ability in the subjects. Students in the higher sets are taught the three sciences (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) separately in rotation by specialist teachers, to increase their focus and motivation. They are assessed for their writing about science as well their scientific knowledge at the end of each unit.
At Key Stage 4 (GCSE level), the syllabus “Twenty-first Century Science” is followed. This is designed to be relevant to the world around us, with the aim of creating the scientists of the future. Topics covered include ethics, science in the news, inventions – as well as the theory and practical aspects of the subject. In Year 10, students cover the Core syllabus of nine modules and two pieces of coursework, which lead to one full GCSE at the end of Year 10.
In Year 11, they follow targeted pathways again, with Additional studies available for students planning to continue their science studies beyond school, and Applied options for others. The Applied options include the science of life, of agriculture and food, and of materials and performance. They are assessed by coursework (50%) and exams (50%).
An annual STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths) day is held across the school when all students focus on these subjects. Cross-curricular links are being developed with the art, maths and English departments.
Resources
There are six fully-equipped labs for experimental and practical work, several of them recently refurbished. A new ICT suite for Science enables all science students to access research, presentations and simulations of dangerous experiments via web-based and interactive whiteboard technology. New “Data Loggers” enable students to do field work including soil analysis much more accurately. Moodle enables students to access homework, assessments and worksheets from PCs both in school and at home.
Clubs and out-of-school activities
The Crest Investigators Club offers primary pupils the chance to become Star scientists in Years 3-4 and Super Stars in Years 5-6. When they join Year 7 they can achieve Mega Star status and become KS3 Science Ambassadors. Science Summer Schools are run in late August for Year 6, 7 and 8 students, doing pratical “kitchen science” experiements. Revision and coursework clinics are run regularly and booster sessions are offered in the run-up to SATs and GCSEs.
Sale High School is the lead school in Trafford for the Level 6+ Gifted & Talented National Pilot which aims to improve results in science. It is targeted at students who hope to achieve A* - B grades at GCSE. The programme includes masterclasses, visits to local universities and businesses, visits to the school by scientists and other techniques.
