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 details

The 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.
Link to course specification

Assessment

Exam (2.25 hrs)

Modules 1, 2, 3 & 5

37% of the

qualification

Exam (2.25 hrs)

Modules 1, 2, 4 & 6

37% of the

qualification

Exam (1.5 hrs)

Modules 1 - 6 

26% of the

qualification

Enrichment opportunities

A 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.

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”

Progression

A 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 Details

The 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:

  • Module 1 – Development of practical skills in chemistry
  • Module 2 – Foundations in chemistry
  • Module 3 – Periodic table and energy
  • Module 4 – Core organic chemistry

This is followed by a further two modules in Year 13:

  • Module 5 – Physical chemistry and transition elements
  • Module 6 – Organic chemistry and analysis

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.

  
Link to course specification  

Assessment

Exam (2.25 hrs)

Modules 1, 2, 3 & 5

37% of the

qualification

Exam (2.25 hrs)

Modules 1, 2, 4 & 6

37% of the

qualification

Exam (1.5 hrs)

Modules 1 - 6 

26% of the

qualification
 

Enrichment opportunities

In 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.

  

Progression

In 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

 

Course details

Blenheim 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.

  
Link to course specification  

Assessment

Exam (2 hrs)

Modules 1 to 5 and 6.1 (Periodic Motion)

34% of the

qualification

Exam (2 hrs)

Sections 6.2 (Thermal Physics), 7 and 8

34% of the

qualification

Exam (2 hrs)

Practical Skills and data analysis PLUS students enter for ONE of sections 9, 10, 11, 12 or 13

32% of the

qualification
 

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.”		  

Progression

A 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.		  

Useful Links

  

 

BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate in Applied Human Biology

Course details

The 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. 
Link to course specification

Assessment

The 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 opportunities

Students 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.

Progression

Level 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.
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