Ethos and Teaching
At Kilgarth we believe that the study of science should widen our pupils’ understanding about every aspect of the world we live in and how science impacts on their everyday lives. We aim to deliver a science curriculum that is stimulating and challenging; taught using a variety of task that are often practically based and always take account of the pupils’ individual needs. We have a strong focus on developing the vital skills to enable collaborative and independent learning to take place. All this enables pupils to achieve their individual potential appropriate to their age, ability and emotional development.
Assessment and Qualifications
Pupils at Key Stage 3 follow the National Curriculum Programme of Study and their progress is assessed continually as they complete the topics. Further details of the programs of study can be found on the curriculum plan web page.
Key Stage 4
At Key Stage 4 we currently study the Edexcel BTE Certificate in the Principles of Applied Science which has an equivalence of one GCE at grades A to C. Attainment is assessed in two ways:
| Unit 1 - Principles of Science | Unit 2 - Chemistry and our Earth | Unit 3 - Energy and our Universe | Unit 4 - Biology and our Environment |
|---|---|---|---|
| External examination | Four internally assessed assignment briefs | Three internally assessed assignment briefs | Three internally assessed assignment briefs |
| 25% | 25% | 25% | 25% |
All assignment briefs are completed in the classroom. Pupils will have appropriate guidance (in line with BTEC assessment guidelines) and will have the opportunity to improve their work to gain a higher grade if they wish to do so. The following grades are available:
| Qualification Grade | GCSE (9-1) Equivalence |
|---|---|
| PASS | equivalence to GCSE grade 4 |
| MERIT | equivalence to GCSE grade 5.5 |
| DISTINCTION | equivalence to GCSE grade 7 |