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Maths

MATHEMATICS AND FURTHER MATHEMATICS

The main reason for studying mathematics is that it is interesting and enjoyable. Mathematics is about structure, logical analysis, deduction and calculations. Many pupils enjoy the challenge that this subject has to offer and find it interesting to explore the different branches of Mathematics.

Mathematics is taught throughout the school from Year 7 to Year 11 when students take their final GCSE examination. Those who attain a B grade or better are encouraged to continue this subject into AS level. Further Mathematics is also available to those who show real promise.

The department follows policies defined by the National Guidelines for Mathematics education. These provide opportunity for all our pupils to gain the necessary skills by making use of the latest resources and technology. Our team of highly qualified, enthusiastic staff encourages a holistic approach to Mathematics education.

Assessment at Key Stage 4 takes place via the Edexcel linear exam where pupils will sit a non-calculator and calculator paper. Each pupil's progress is carefully monitored across the key stages enabling challenge and encouragement to be offered as appropriate.

The school offers opportunities for participation in the National Mathematics Challenge and endeavours to foster a love for the subject by offering a games and puzzles club and the increasingly popular chess club.

Despite Mathematics being a subject that pupils 'love-to-hate', we have managed to foster a respect and healthy attitude to the subject through the years

Sciences

PHYSICS, CHEMISTRY AND BIOLOGY

Science is taught throughout the school from Year 7 to Year 11 when pupils sit their final GCSE modules. It is also offered at AS and A2 Level in the Sixth Form.

Pupils are encouraged to take a hands-on approach to Science, exploring and investigating every aspect of this important discipline.

At GCSE level, pupils learn to develop an understanding of the world around them and become familiar with the scientific skills and concepts that they need at this stage of their education.

The course provides a sound basis for those who wish to continue their studies in Science.

Many trips are arranged during the two-year course. They have included a day at Thames Water Laboratories to understand analytical techniques relating to Chemistry. Another trip took a class to Chesterfield to see sulphuric acid manufactured at the Rhone-Poulenc factory.

Design Technology

DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

Design Technology is taught throughout the school from Year 7 to Year 9 after which it is a popular option for GCSE study in Years 10 and 11. In the Sixth Form AS and A2 Levels are taught in Art and Design and Product Design.

The Technology Centre is a very well equipped suite of workshops, comprising specialist rooms catering for work in wood, metal and plastics. The engineering room is particularly well equipped, with a series of computers in the classroom linked to the latest CAD/CAM router. Our pupils can carry out work very similar to that in modern industrial manufacturing.

In Year 7 our pupils are taught how to process the common materials through a wide range of traditional and contemporary projects. With each project, progressively more individual design work is introduced so that by the end of Year 9 pupils can design products to their own specification.

For GCSE, pupils are able to choose between Resistant Materials (using whatever material best suits their design) or Industrial Production (knowledge and skills related to engineering manufacturing). Pupils who have successfully completed either of these are invited to take AS Level Product Design.

Over the years students have produced much excellent work, demonstrating originality of design and competent execution.

ICT

ICT

ICT is taught throughout the school from Year 7 to Year 9, and then as a GCSE option in Years 10 and 11. In the Sixth form pupils receive any ICT support they require.

ICT is an important core programme. We do all we can to ensure that our pupils become thoroughly competent, gaining the skills required to help them with their on-going education, future employment and general negotiation of life. Many of our pupils choose to take ICT as a GCSE option.

The lower school follow the national framework for ICT and in so doing receive a good grounding in both the skills and rationale of the subject.

In Years 10 and 11 our pupils are able to opt for a GCSE course. Even if they do not choose this option they still follow a nationally recognised qualification in computer usage.

Sixth Form study is more informal with drop-in sessions for pupils who need help with particular topics.

Psychology

PSYCHOLOGY

Psychology is taught at both AS and A2 Level in the Sixth Form.

Psychology may be described as the 'science of mind and behaviour'. It is the study of how people and animals behave and how their minds function.

There are six modules required to gain A Level Psychology, three taught each year.

In the Lower Sixth the following modules are tackled:

Unit 1: Cognitive, Social and Developmental processes

Unit 2: Behavioural, Psychodynamic and Physiological approaches

Unit 3: One externally marked coursework investigation

To progress through Upper Sixth our students build upon the first year's work. This allows them to explore social and moral issues within psychology and further develop their research skills. They also have the opportunity to study a variety of important psychological applications, including Sport, Criminological and Health psychology.