science1'A community enjoying scientific discovery and achieving together through the nurturing of enquiring minds'

Why everyone should know about science?

From a very early age, we all interact with our environment, asking questions and seeking answers. This question-and-answer process lies at the heart of knowing and doing science. It is a way of knowing and thinking about the natural and physical components of the world in which we live.

The importance of science in our daily lives may not be immediately obvious, yet everyday we make science-based choices. We use science when we choose what to eat, or choose products with the least impact on the environment or make informed decisions about our health-care. Science is the foundation of an innovative culture and at the core of significant political decisions. Understanding science is crucial for all so we can be informed and active in our personal future and also that of our country.

Our approach

Science is really interesting but it can sometimes seem abstract. Many adults and students feel that the more difficult concepts are unreachable. The science team at Bonus recognise this and aim to deliver lessons that make science come alive, bring it into the real world and most importantly make it accessible to all.

Many lessons are delivered using an inquiry based approach with purpose of allowing students to figure things out for themselves. This is often achieved through experimentation which is an integral part of our science education, particularly at key stage 3.

Key Stage 3

KS3 science is taught over two years and as one subject through the Exploring Science teaching scheme. All three main disciplines (Biology, Chemistry and Physics) are given equal time. Students receive seven science lessons per fortnight in Year 7 and four double lessons per fortnight in year 8. These lessons are a combination of practical and theory lessons, with regular activities to support student learning and attainment. Progress tasks and tests provide quantitative data to support the tracking of students, to ensure that all students make good or better progress. Context drives our syllabus, helping to relate science to real-life concepts and experiences. significant number of homework is given as online tasks.

Key Stage 4

At KS4 most students are taught either Triple Science or Double Science GCSEs, which will be delivered over three years, enabling extensive opportunity to explore these subjects in depth.  Triple science is strong at Bonus with experienced subject specialists teaching all lessons and opportunities for extra-curricular learning.  Alternatively students study a double award option, gaining GCSE Combined Science to give them 2 GCSEs.

Here is the exam board link for the new GCSE Sciences Edexcel specifications for year 9 and 10:

 Staff and facilities

The Science Department is lucky to have 4 purpose-built science laboratories, one science classroom and eight Specialist Science teachers who all teach their specialism at Key Stage 4. We also have two dedicated technicians who provide us with the practical work that is crucial to helping children develop an understanding of the processes and theories in the subject. Each room is equipped with an interactive whiteboard and we also have a set of lap tops to allow technology to impact in a positive way on the learning experiences of pupils.