
Science
The teaching programmes in Science are designed to develop a broad range of practical skills and processes, an understanding of scientific concepts and an awareness of the importance of Science in today’s society.
Facilities
Science lessons are taught in twelve modern laboratories, fully equipped for all school practical activities.
A level Biology
Course detailsThe OCR course content is split into 6 modules. Each of them building the knowledge of the previous one. Module 1 – Development of practical skills in biology Module 2 – Foundations in biology (Cells, biological molecules, enzymes) Module 3 – Exchange and Transport systems Module 4 – Biodiversity, evolution and disease Module 5 – Communication, homeostasis and energy Module 6 – Genetics, evolution and ecosystems The practical endorsement does not form part of the A level grade, but is reported separately. It is awarded based on completion of a minimum of 12 assessed practical activities carried out over the two years of the course. |
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Assessment
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Enrichment opportunitiesA level students are encouraged to participate in GCSE Biology lessons so that they can benefit from explaining biological concepts to KS4 students which helps tremendously in Sixth Form students’ own consolidation and knowledge. |
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Student quotes“It is a great course as you get to understand the main processes of life” “I love the course because you learn about so many different topics, it is very varied and interesting” “The world finally starts to make sense!” “There are so many resources and the teachers give a lot of their time so it makes this hard A level seem much easier” |
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ProgressionA level Biology is a rigorous and broad subject. It can be used as a springboard for many careers, including biological research, ecological and environmental careers, marine conservation, medicine, pharmacy, dentistry, pharmacology and teaching. The list is endless. |
A level Chemistry
Course DetailsThe Chemistry course teaches not only essential chemical concepts, but also a range of analytical and practical skills, which prepares students for more advanced scientific study. The course also studies some of the important applications of Chemistry such as the development of antibiotics, designer materials, pesticides and chemical dyes. During Year 12, students complete four modules of study:
This is followed by a further two modules in Year 13:
Over the two years of the course, students also complete a practical endorsement (this is reported separately from the overall A level grade) by undertaking a minimum of 12 assessed practical assignments. |
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Assessment
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Enrichment opportunitiesIn addition to various visits and visitors, students studying A level Chemistry have opportunities to complete placements in a number of scientific, engineering, medical and educational fields. A level students also have opportunities to collaborate with and support younger students, both in class and in other activities. These may include Science Club, Crest Awards and other events and competitions. |
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ProgressionIn addition to various visits and visitors, students studying A level Chemistry have opportunities to complete placements in a number of scientific, engineering, medical and educational fields. A level students also have opportunities to collaborate with and support younger students, both in class and in other activities. These may include Science Club, Crest Awards and other events and competitions. |
A level Physics
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Course detailsBlenheim teaches the OCR Physics A AQA which is relevant to real world experiences and is interesting to learn. The specification is designed to inspire students, nurture a passion for Physics and lay the groundwork for further study in science or engineering. During Year 12, students complete seven modules of study: Module 1 –Mechanics Module 2 – Materials Module 3 – Electricity Module 4 – Waves Module 5 - Quantum Module 6 - Measurements and their errors Module 7 - Further mechanics This is followed by a further five modules in Year 13: Module 8 - Gravitational, electric and magnetic Fields Module 9 – Thermal physics Module 10 - Nuclear Physics Module 11 - Astrophysics The Practical Endorsement does not form part of the A level grade, but is reported separately. It is awarded based on completion of a minimum of 12 assessed practical activities carried out over the two years of the course. |
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Assessment
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Student quotes“The best thing about Physics is the practical lessons and learning how the world around us works.” “You have to work hard outside of class, but there are lots of resources and help available from the teachers.” |
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ProgressionA level Physics is a highly regarded qualification because of its rigour and demanding nature. It can lead students on to a wide range of careers and university courses. From Physics degrees or degrees in a particular area of Physics (e.g. astrophysics, electronics, medical physics, lasers, quantum physics), to other related subjects such as engineering, meteorology, space, telecommunications, energy, finance or business management. |
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Useful Links
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BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology
Course detailsThe BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology is suitable for learners that wish to study biology as a foundation for the health and health science sectors. These sectors are wide ranging including nursing, midwifery and allied health and sciences. The course, which is equivalent to 1 full A Level, is designed to be delivered across 2 years and includes 4 units of work. The units are: Unit 1- Principles of Applied Human Biology including cells, biological molecules, body systems, the immune system, genetics and health Unit 2- Practical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases Unit 3- Human Biology and Health Issues allows students to develop their understanding of health issues, the impact of health initiatives and scientific reporting from different sources Unit 4- Functional Physiology including the muscular, skeletal, endocrine and nervous systems Students will complete practical assessments, presentations and produce written reports. They will also develop valuable transferable skills essential for higher education or employment such as problem solving, working in teams and organisation skills. |
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AssessmentThe course is assessed by a combination of externally assessed exams and internally assessed coursework. Students will produce a portfolio of work based on project work, practical assignments and research. This qualification is graded using a scale of Pass to Distinction*. |
Enrichment opportunitiesStudents to take part in GCSE Biology lessons which provides experience of explaining biological concepts and practical skills to KS4 students. Students can also support younger pupils at Science Club and STEMfest as well as other activities. |
ProgressionLevel 3 BTEC Human Biology provides a broad basis of study and allows for progression to Higher Education or careers in areas such as Nursing, Occupational Health and Sports Science. |