HEAD OF FACULTY - MS C THOMAS

OUR science CURRICULUM

What is Science?

Science is the systematic study of the natural world through observation, experimentation, and analysis. It seeks to understand the underlying principles governing various phenomena, allowing us to explain, predict, and sometimes control aspects of our environment. The scientific method is a key aspect of science, involving the formulation of hypotheses, conducting experiments, gathering data, and drawing conclusions based on evidence. This rigorous approach helps ensure that scientific knowledge is reliable and continuously evolving, as new discoveries and technologies emerge.

Science at orion eden park

The Science curriculum at Orion Eden Park aims to ensure students leave with secure knowledge and understanding of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. We aim to inspire curiosity, foster critical thinking, and cultivate a deep understanding of scientific principles, equipping students to navigate and contribute to an increasingly complex and diverse world.  

science at ks3

Science at KS3

Key Stage 3 introduces students to core concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, providing them with a solid foundation in scientific principles that will be built upon in later years. We frame all of our learning in the context of our big ideas which allow students to organise their ideas around the major scientific concepts and make links as they progress through school. In an increasingly complex world, scientific literacy is essential for informed citizenship. We promote understanding of scientific concepts and issues to assist them to contribute meaningfully to societal debates on topics such as climate change, health, and technology. Science is taught in mixed ability groups at KS3, with four lessons per week. 

year 7 subject curriculum plan science.pdf

year 8 long term plan.pdf

year 9 long term plan.pdf

science at ks4

Science at KS4

• The end of year 9 assessment will be used to place students into 10p1 (our separate science set), this will be a maximum of 32 students - if attainment is high then we will have two separate science classes.

• 10p2 will be our next highest attaining combined set based on the end of year 9 assessment

• 10p1 and 10p2 are the only sets that will have the opportunity to move into separate science. Year 10 PPE1 (Pre Public Examinations) will determine the next movement into or out of separate science (all of which will be communicated home) 

• Following PPE1 we will not move any new students into 10p1, as due to the nature of the course it will be difficult to catch up with content missed

• e may move students out of 10p1 at a later date depending on progress, however, this will always be communicated with parents and student prior to the change

  OUR combined science CURRICULUM

  We aim to provide all students—regardless of background, ability, or prior attainment—with a broad, balanced, and inclusive science education that fosters curiosity, critical thinking, and a lifelong interest in the world around them. We aim to equip students with the scientific knowledge and skills they need to understand key concepts in biology, chemistry, and physics, as well as to make informed decisions in an increasingly scientific and technological world.
  Our curriculum is designed to:
  • Build on strong foundations from KS3, enabling progression and deepening understanding of core scientific principles.
  • Promote scientific literacy, ensuring students can critically analyse data, evaluate evidence, and articulate scientific arguments.
  • Prepare students for future pathways, whether into A-level sciences, vocational qualifications, or the world of work, by developing resilience, independence, and problem-solving skills.
  • Reflect and respect diversity, using inclusive content and teaching methods that engage and challenge all learners.
  • Support personal development, by highlighting the role of science in health, environmental sustainability, technology, and ethical issues.
  We are committed to delivering a curriculum that not only meets the requirements of the Edexcel specification but also inspires and empowers every student to achieve their potential and to see science as both relevant and accessible in their lives and futures.
  Students will have 6 lessons per week in year 10, 2 per discipline with a specialist teacher.
  Students will have 7 lessons per week in year 11, 2 per discipline with a specialist teacher and an extra lesson per week dedicated to exam practice.

  Combined Science GCSE - Edexcel GCSE Sciences (2016) | Pearson qualifications  

  Y10 Biology Plan

  y10 combined science biology.pdf

    

  Y10 Chemistry Plan 

  y10 combined science chemistry .pdf

   

  Y10 Physics Plan 

  y10 combined science physics.pdf

   

  Y11 Biology Plan 

  y11 combined science biology.pdf

   

  Y11 Chemistry Plan 

  y11 combined science chemistry.pdf

   

  Y11 Physics Plan 

  y11 combined science physics.pdf

   

  OUR separate science CURRICULUM

  We aim to provide students with a rigorous and enriching scientific education that fosters deep understanding, critical thinking, and a lifelong passion for discovery. Through the study of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics as distinct disciplines, we aim to challenge and inspire students to explore the complexities of the natural world and the impact of science on society.
  Our curriculum is designed to:
  • Extend and deepen knowledge beyond Combined Science, offering greater breadth and detail to support academic excellence and scientific curiosity.
  • Promote analytical and practical skills, enabling students to design experiments, interpret data, and evaluate scientific evidence with confidence and accuracy.
  • Support progression into STEM pathways, by providing a strong foundation for A-level sciences and future careers in science, medicine, engineering, and research.
  • Encourage independent thinking, resilience, and problem-solving—skills that are essential for both academic success and life beyond the classroom.
  • Ensure inclusivity and accessibility, so that all learners, regardless of background or starting point, are supported and challenged appropriately.
  • Make science meaningful, by exploring its relevance to global issues such as health, climate change, sustainability, and innovation.
  Our intent is to deliver a curriculum that not only meets the high expectations of the Edexcel Separate Science specification but also develops scientifically literate, reflective, and empowered individuals ready to shape and contribute to an ever-changing world.
  Students will have 6 lessons per week in year 10, 2 per discipline with a specialist teacher.
  Students will have 7 lessons per week in year 11, 2 per discipline with a specialist teacher and an extra lesson per week dedicated to exam practice

y10 separate science biology.docx

y11 separate science biology.docx

y10 triple chem ltp.docx

y11 triple chem ltp.docx

y10 triple phys ltp.docx

y11 triple phys ltp.docx

useful websites

useful websites

1. BBC Bitesize Offers topic-by-topic revision resources, quizzes, and animations specifically aligned with Edexcel GCSE Science.
   Visit BBC Bitesize
2. Seneca Learning Interactive and engaging platform with Edexcel-specific content, covering biology, chemistry, and physics.
   Explore Seneca Learning
3. Save My Exams Provides revision notes, past paper solutions, and model answers tailored for Edexcel Science.
   Visit Save My Exams
4. Physics & Maths Tutor Features concise revision notes, practice questions, and exam tips for all Edexcel Science topics.
   Check it out
5. GCSE Science Revision by Revision World Free science resources including flashcards, topic summaries, and past papers.
   Go to Revision World
6. Cognito https://cognitoedu.org/home
    

1. My GCSE Science Offers detailed, syllabus-aligned videos with clear explanations for Edexcel Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
   Watch My GCSE Science
2. Freesciencelessons One of the most popular channels for GCSE Science, covering all topics with concise and clear videos.
   Visit Freesciencelessons
3. Primrose Kitten Provides revision advice, topic explanations, and walkthroughs of past papers for Edexcel Science.
   Explore Primrose Kitten
4. Edexcel GCSE Science Playlist A dedicated playlist for Edexcel topics, helping you focus on specific parts of the curriculum.
   Watch the playlist
5. Science Revision Channel Covers all Edexcel Science topics with focus on exam technique and essential knowledge.
   Visit the channel
6. FuseSchool - Global Education Offers free chemistry tutorials with animations, making complex topics simple and visually appealing.
   FuseSchool Chemistry
7. Dr. PhysicsA While primarily focused on physics, this channel covers some challenging Chemistry concepts relevant to Edexcel, like atomic structure and periodicity.
   Visit Dr. PhysicsA
8. The Organic Chemistry Tutor While this channel also covers higher levels of chemistry, its GCSE content is thorough and easy to follow for topics like stoichiometry and organic chemistry.
   The Organic Chemistry Tutor

science at ks5

Science at KS5

• Modern, well-equipped laboratories that support hands-on practical work and scientific investigation
• Structured curriculum delivery aligned with AQA specifications, ensuring clarity, depth, and progression
• Personalised academic support to help students meet their goals and prepare for future study or careers
• Enrichment opportunities, such as trips to labs, or independent research projects

Biology

AQA A-level Chemistry at sixth form offers a challenging and rewarding programme for students with a strong interest in science and a desire to understand the fundamental principles that govern the physical world. The course provides a comprehensive study of physical, organic, and inorganic chemistry, supported by extensive practical work that develops essential laboratory and analytical skills. Students will engage with topics ranging from atomic structure and chemical bonding to reaction kinetics and spectroscopy, preparing them for a wide range of science-based degrees and careers. Highly regarded by universities and employers alike, A-level Chemistry fosters critical thinking, problem-solving, and scientific literacy—skills that are invaluable in both academic and professional contexts.

physics

Learning physics profoundly shapes young minds by cultivating critical cognitive skills such as analytical reasoning, logical thought, and problem-solving. It encourages students to think critically, assess evidence, and approach challenges methodically, while also enhancing abstract thinking and visualisation through complex concepts like quantum mechanics and fields. Physics sparks curiosity by revealing the workings of the universe, from everyday phenomena to cosmic mysteries and fosters creativity through experimentation and innovative problem-solving. Ultimately, it equips young people with a scientific mindset and a deeper understanding of the world, empowering them to make informed decisions and succeed across academic, professional, and personal domains.

ks5 physics ltp.docx