Science
Science is delivered following the National Curriculum and pupils are taught the three separate sciences (Biology, Chemistry and Physics), using the White Rose Science schemes of work across Key Stages 1-3. Pupils learn key areas of study within each science include light, sound, separating mixtures, acids and alkalis, the human body and evolution, plants, animals, forces and the outside world. At Collingwood our objective is for all students to leave with an accreditation, which is why we offer a range of science qualifications at Key stage 4, including GCSE Biology, ASDAN Science, Entry Level Science as well as AQA Awards.
In Science, a cross curricular method to the subject is implemented by integrating and developing their knowledge and understanding of Literacy, numeracy and ICT skills. There are regular opportunities for discussions, role plays and practical activities. Science at Collingwood is all about making the students aware of the world they live in, preparing them for that world, and where possible practical activities as well as outdoor activities will encourage the students to broaden their understanding.
Science Curriculum Topics
In Primary our pupils follow the White Rose Science Scheme. It is a comprehensive, research-led science curriculum developed by White Rose Education, adapting the highly successful “small steps” mastery approach originally pioneered in White Rose Maths. The framework offers fully sequenced Schemes.
Core Curriculum Features
- Small Steps Approach: Substantive knowledge is broken down into highly structured, manageable teaching steps that organically build deep conceptual understanding over time.
- Maths Alignment: Curriculum blocks are deliberately sequenced alongside White Rose Maths so pupils never encounter a mathematical skill in science before it has been taught in maths.
- Working Scientifically: Disciplinary skills, enquiry methods, and hands-on investigation criteria are explicitly mapped into daily lessons rather than treated as isolated tasks.
- Dedicated Sustainability Units: Every year group contains built-in modules tackling real-world environmental themes, from plastic consumption in Year 1 to renewable energy and climate issues by Year 6.
- PIE Investigation Framework: Key Stage 1 and 2 practicals utilize structured “Plan, Investigate, Evaluate” steps to guide pupils through variables and fair testing mechanics.
Science in KS3
In Key Stage 3 all pupils continue to follow the White Rose Science Scheme, building on previous learning and introducing new topics to challenge and engage.
White Rose Science for KS3 is a research-led curriculum that aligns with the National Curriculum, designed to help students master biology, chemistry, and physics. It breaks complex topics down into small, logical steps, integrating practical activities, key scientific vocabulary, and explicit guidance on addressing common misconceptions.
Key Features of the Curriculum
- Small Steps Approach: Concepts are broken down into manageable chunks so students build foundational knowledge gradually before moving to more complex ideas.
- Integrated Enquiry: Practical tasks and investigative skills (working scientifically) are woven directly into every step.
Core Subject Areas Covered
- Biology: Explores living organisms, habitats, life cycles, and the human body.
- Chemistry: Focuses on the properties of materials, states of matter, and basic chemical reactions.
- Physics: Covers fundamental topics like forces, motion, energy, light, sound, and the Earth in space.
Throughout the year we will continue to develop our scientific skills. Such as data collection, investigation, fair tests, observations, accurate measurements and gathering and recording information.
Science in KS4 – ELC & ASDAN
Our Pupils in our B, G and our KS4 Woodlands classes work towards 2 qualifications in Science. The first is ASDAN Science, and the second course is Edexcel Entry Level Certificate in Science. Those who are academically thriving will also be given the opportunity to sit GCSE Biology.
ASDAN Science
The ASDAN Science Short Course is a flexible, portfolio-based program that accredits up to 60 hours of scientific study. Designed to build confidence, independence, and practical skills.
Core Features
- No Final Exams: Assessment is based entirely on a portfolio of evidence and practical challenges, heavily reducing student stress.
- Modular Structure: The curriculum is divided into 6 core modules:
- Human machine
- Forces and motion
- Chemical change
- Biological challenges
- Space physics
- Performance in sport
- Transferable Skills: The course naturally integrates ASDAN’s core skills: learning, communicating, decision making, thinking, team working, and self-awareness.
Edexcel Entry Level Science
The Pearson Edexcel Entry Level Certificate (ELC) in Science is a foundational qualification designed for students who may struggle with mainstream GCSEs due to learning challenges or emotional barriers. It covers core Key Stage 4 science concepts, builds confidence, and serves as a stepping stone to GCSE Combined Science.
Each of the six externally-set tests will focus on a specific area of content from the specification, shown as follows.
- Paper 1: Biology 1A – Cells, genetics, inheritance and modification (Cells, Genetics, Inheritance and modification)
- Paper 2: Biology 1B – Health, disease and the development of medicines (Disease, Prevention and medicines, Health)
- Paper 3: Chemistry 1A – Atoms, compounds and states of matter (Atomic structure, The periodic table, Ionic bonding, Covalent bonding, Metallic bonding, States of matter)
- Paper 4: Chemistry 1B – Separating mixtures, breaking down substances, acids and metals (Methods of separating and purifying substances, Breaking down ionic compounds, Acids, Metals)
- Paper 5: Physics 1A – Forces, movement and energy (Motion, Forces, Energy)
- Paper 6: Physics 1B – Waves and radiation (Waves, Electromagnetic spectrum, Atoms, Radiation)
Science in KS4 GCSE
Our pupils in our P groups, and identified pupils in B & G groups work towards a GCSE Biology qualification which spans the 2 academic years.
The AQA GCSE Biology (8461) course covers the fundamental principles of living organisms, structured across 7 core topics and assessed via two terminal written exam papers in May and June of Year 11. It provides a comprehensive foundation in the life sciences for students.
Exam Structure
- Paper 1: Cell biology, Organisation, Infection and response, and Bioenergetics.
- Paper 2: Homeostasis and response, Inheritance, variation and evolution, and Ecology.
Core Topic Summaries
- 1. Cell Biology: Explores the building blocks of life. Students learn about eukaryotic and prokaryotic cells, microscopy, cell division (mitosis), and membrane transport mechanisms like diffusion and osmosis.
- 2. Organisation: Focuses on human and plant systems. Topics include the digestive system, the heart, blood vessels, enzymes, and plant tissues like xylem and phloem.
- 3. Infection and Response: Covers communicable diseases (including viral, bacterial, and fungal infections), the human immune system, and the development of drugs and vaccines.
- 4. Bioenergetics: Details how organisms capture and use energy. This involves the biochemical processes of photosynthesis and aerobic/anaerobic respiration.
- 5. Homeostasis and Response: Explains how the body maintains a stable internal environment. Key areas include the nervous system, the endocrine system (hormones), and the regulation of blood glucose and body temperature.
- 6. Inheritance, Variation, and Evolution: Covers DNA, genes, genetic crosses, natural selection, selective breeding, and genetic engineering.
- 7. Ecology: Explores ecosystems, food chains, biodiversity, the impact of humans on the environment, and material cycling.