Science KS4

SCIENCE – KEY STAGE 4

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At Key Stage 4, students deepen their knowledge and further develop the skills and curiosity that underpin a lifelong understanding of science. Through a carefully sequenced curriculum, students explore engaging and relevant ideas that help them make sense of the world and themselves as scientists.

The curriculum is delivered across Biology, Chemistry and Physics, building a broad and connected understanding of key concepts. Students follow either the AQA Combined Science (Trilogy) route – equivalent to two GCSEs, taught over nine lessons per fortnight (three per discipline) – or the Separate Sciences pathway, with fourteen lessons per fortnight, split across the three subjects. Students are taught by subject specialists, with a dedicated teacher for each discipline.

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Curriculum Overview

Alongside developing their knowledge, students continue to build key scientific skills. including practical work, data analysis, graphing, numeracy, and scientific writing. Opportunities to apply learning and think independently are embedded throughout the curriculum, stretching students beyond the specification and preparing them for the future.

Science at Key Stage 4 also plays an important role in students’ personal development. Through topics such as fuels and energy resources, stem cells, and vaccination, students explore the ethical implications of scientific advances and global challenges. They are encouraged to consider different viewpoints, with evidence, and form informed opinions, helping them to become thoughtful, responsible individuals who understand both the power of science and its impact on society.

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Curriculum Map

Assessment is carefully designed to support progress and build confidence. Within each topic, students complete a diagnostic assessment focused on a key area where targeted feedback can have the greatest impact. This is followed by a summative assessment that evaluates their understanding against our Assessment Related Curriculum Expectations (ACREs). This approach provides clear, meaningful information for students, teachers and parents – helping everyone to understand current progress and how best to improve.

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