Science

Our intent within science is to stimulate the curiosity of our students in the natural world around them and to teach them the knowledge and skills they need to be good global citizens and successful members of society. By recognising to varying needs to the students at Pyrland School, we intend to deliver a curriculum that can address these different needs and offer the most suitable route for any individual student.

Underpinning all the science curricula are the key principles of knowledge, skills, and impact. A developed working knowledge of scientific facts, ideas, and concepts is necessary for the students to better comprehend the natural world. Students will start with clear knowledge records in each of the science units which will demonstrate the development in complexity of the ideas. Effective skills are not only required to allow students to explore the natural world but also to progress later in life. These skills include observational, analysis, mathematical as well as traditional, laboratory experimental skills. Throughout the curriculum, these skills will be developed.  The impact of scientific understanding is necessary for students to understand the role they have as global citizens. Most obviously, this relates to the curriculum studied regarding finite resources, ecosystems, and global changes. These and other topics will be explicitly included in the course with time for students to explore and develop better their understanding.

The science curriculum at Pyrland School continues to evolve and be refined. From September 2020, the five year curriculum was divided into the pre-exam and examination stages.

In Years 7 and 8, all students will follow a similar curriculum laying the foundation skills and providing the knowledge required for further progress. In Year 9, those students with the ability and desire to pursue science at a higher level, separate biology, chemistry, and physics will be taught at the higher level.  Other students will transition towards a GCSE examination course in science at a suitable time via an Entry Level Course.

Those students with the ability and drive will study science course at a higher level.  More students from TTA will study A Levels in science.

All students will gain a qualification in GCSE science. Students who currently might be expected to struggle to achieve pass grades will be rewarded through certification at Entry Level.

Whilst at TTA, students will be enthusiastic about studying science, particularly with an understanding in the role science has to play in society’s future and their individual role in that.