Science at Pen-Y-Dre

The Science Faculty aims to Inspire students to explore and engage with the exciting world of science and its many applications

KS3 Learning:

Pupils study all three Sciences at KS3. Years 7, 8 and 9 are taught in set groups. Throughout the three years pupils study a wide variety of topics that cover Chemistry, Biology and Physics. Each topic is assessed through Scientific enquiry, to assess understanding of skills, range and content. Throughout the course, pupils undertake practical work to develop practical skills and to support their understanding of how science works.

Towards the end of year 9 pupils build on their knowledge and skills gained in preparation for KS4 study. As a pilot, the current Year 9 follow both the KS3 and KS4 programme of study with a number of learners sitting their GCSE Science this Summer.

KS4 Learning:

There are three different pathways available through KS4. Pupils wishing to further their studies in Science post 16 are encouraged to study GCSE Sciences. Assessment for each qualification is through three written exams in June of each year, and a controlled assessment task, all of which are set by the exam board (AQA).

At the end of Year 9, learners either opt for a) GCSE Science plus GCSE Additional Science: b) GCSE separate Sciences in Biology, Chemistry and Physics or c) BTEC Level 2 Certificate in Applied Science.
Each learner, in consultation with their parents, is given individual advice on which pathway is most suitable, in terms of their ability, post-16 study and career aspirations