Curriculum aims
In Years 7 and 8 the aim of the Saint John Payne science curriculum is to introduce students to the important general principles of science and investigative study. This is knowledge and skills that will underpin their progress in their GCSE - and potentially 'A' Level - studies. The programme is designed to be as interactive possible, to inspire a love of science, and to build student confidence regardless of their prior attainment.
Structure
Based on the current National Curriculum and taught by one - or on rare occasions - two specialist science teachers, each year group studies a carousel of 12 units for three periods per week. Units have been designed to represent important areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics with each lasting between 6 to 9 lessons. In year 7, students are taught in their form group (six classes) and in year 8 in one of either four equal higher tier groups or four equal foundation tier groups.
Click HERE for Year 7 Curriculum
Click HERE for Year 8 Curriculum
Tracking progress
At the end of each unit, students sit a short assessment test and are awarded a grade from E (emerging) to GCSE grades G1 to G4 with each grade subdivided into -, =- or + subdivisions.