Key Stage 3


What will I study?

Pupils are taught a range of topics through year 7 and 8 based on the new KS3 Programme of Study. The units have been developed by our experienced and highly motivated teaching staff and are designed to cover the core aspects of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The units are packed full of practicals that aim to make lessons engaging but that also put the theory that pupils are learning into context. The range of resources available within the Faculty is vast and as such personalising learning happens naturally across the Key Stage. Pupils are assessed using end of unit examinations as well as tasks that test Numeracy, Literacy and Working Scientifically in each topic. In all these tasks pupils are asked to respond to teacher feedback so they can understand what is required to make progress.

We use Year 9 to prepare pupils for their important GCSE courses. Pupils are taught Biology, Chemistry and Physics units by specialist teachers. During Year 9 there is a greater emphasis put on preparing pupils for examinations, giving them guidance and support in preparation for their GCSE Science course in Key Stage 4. We also use achievement in year 9 to see which KS4 course is most suited for them and give them advice in the build up to their options.

How will I be formally assessed?
Homework at Key Stage 3 is set in accordance with school policy. On average pupils will be set one homework per fortnight in Year 7, 8 and 9 in Science.

Pupils will complete end of topic tests that are graded as well as three tasks in each topic on Literacy, Numeracy and Working Scientifically. There are end of year tests we use to ensure pupils on on the right track to make their expected progress.