- Home
- Secondary
- Subject Information
Science
BackIntroduction
At Tabor Academy we strive to create an exciting and engaging Science Curriculum for all our students. Students in KS3 and 4 study Science, with a clear focus on the components of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The faculty is staffed by dedicated teachers, who develop and create fun, interactive and practical lessons and activities.
Science is brought to life with the outstanding facilities, resources and modern laboratories, including easy access to open spaces for outdoor learning opportunities. Students in KS3 study the Curriculum from Collins, based on the AQA syllabus that covers key concepts in Biology, Chemistry and Physics – this supports their learning journey towards KS4.
In years 10-11, students work towards GCSEs in Science. The new KS4 syllabus allows for a route to 3 GCSEs; one in Biology, Chemistry and Physics (Triple Science) or two GCSE grades based on an overall performance in Biology, Physics and Chemistry (Trilogy). Good GCSE grades may enable a student to study A-Level Sciences in Year 12 and 13.
Key Stage 3 Science
At Key Stage 3, students develop a strong foundation in Biology, Chemistry and Physics through an engaging and practical curriculum. The course encourages curiosity about the natural world while building scientific knowledge, investigative skills, and confidence in working scientifically.
Students explore a wide range of topics including cells and body systems, forces and energy, matter and chemical reactions, ecosystems, space, and Earth processes. Practical investigations are embedded throughout the curriculum to develop skills in observation, analysis, evaluation, and problem-solving.
Assessment takes place regularly through classwork, practical activities, knowledge checks, and end-of-unit tests, enabling students to monitor their progress and prepare for the demands of GCSE Science.
Key Stage 4 Science (AQA GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy and Triple Science)
At Key Stage 4, students follow the AQA Science curriculum, studying Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students will either complete GCSE Combined Science: Trilogy, which awards two GCSE grades, or GCSE Separate Sciences (Triple Science), which awards three individual GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Both pathways develop scientific knowledge, practical skills, mathematical application, and analytical thinking.
Throughout Years 10 and 11, students study a broad range of scientific concepts including cell biology, genetics, chemical reactions, atomic structure, energy, forces, electricity, and ecology. Practical work is an integral part of the course, allowing students to apply scientific methods and develop essential investigative skills.
Students are assessed regularly through classwork, practical activities, retrieval tasks, and end-of-unit assessments. Following each component of study, students complete a formal assessment to evaluate their understanding and application of scientific concepts. These assessments help students track their progress, identify areas for improvement, and prepare effectively for their final GCSE examinations.
Curriculum Maps:
Key Stage Three
Year 7 overview 2026-2027
Throughout the year, students will complete four key assessments to support their progress and track their development in science.
In Term 1, all Year 7 students will begin with a Skills in Science unit, where they will learn essential laboratory skills and work towards earning their Bunsen burner licence. During the first few weeks, students will also complete a baseline assessment to help us understand their starting points.
Following this, students will study three key topics:
- Organisms
- Reactions
- Electricity
At the end of Term 1, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Ecosystems
- Matter
- Waves
At the end of Term 2, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
Finally, in Term 3, students will study:
- Genes
- Energy
- Forces
At the end of Term 1, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 7 students.
Year 8 overview 2026-2027
Throughout the year, students will complete three key assessments to support their progress and track their development in science.
In Term 1, all Year 8 students will begin with a Skills in Science unit, where they will refresh their essential science skills.
Following this, students will study three key topics:
- Organisms
- Reactions
- Energy
At the end of Term 1, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Earth
- Ecosystems
- Matter
- Waves
At the end of Term 2, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
Finally, in Term 3, students will study:
- Genes
- Electromagnets
- Forces
At the end of Term 1, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 8 students.
Year 9 overview 2026-2027
Throughout the year, students will complete four key assessments to support their progress and track their development in science.
In Term 1, all Year 9 students will begin with a Skills in Science unit, where they will refresh their essential science and transferable skills. At the end of this topic all students will complete an assessment.
Following this, students will study three key topics:
- Cell biology
- Atomic structure and the periodic table
- Energy
At the end of Term 1, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Organisation
- Bonding
- Electricity
At the end of Term 2, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
Finally, in Term 3, students will study:
- Infection and response
- Chemical changes
- Particle model of matter
At the end of Term 1, students will complete an end-of-term assessment covering all the topics taught learnt this term.
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 9 students.
Key Stage Four
Introduction:
Year 10 and 11 Science students are expected to engage fully with all learning activities and independent revision throughout each unit of study. At the end of every component, students will complete an assessment designed to evaluate their understanding of key concepts, scientific knowledge, and application skills. Regular preparation for these end-of-unit tests is essential to ensure students make strong progress and are well prepared for their GCSE examinations.
Year 10 overview 2026-2027 = combined science
Throughout the year, students will complete end of topic assessments to support their progress and track their development in science. There will also be a Year 10 GCSE science MOCK exam which will cover everything in paper 1 science.
In Term 1, Year 10 students studying the combined science GCSE will start with these 4 key topics.
- Chemical changes
- Energy changes
- Homeostasis and response
- Atomic structure and radiation
- Rate and extent of chemical change
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Organic chemistry
- Waves
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
Finally, in Term 3, students will study:
- Forces
- Chemical analysis
- Quantitative chemistry
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 10 students.
Year 10 overview 2026-2027 = triple science
Throughout the year, students will complete end of topic assessments to support their progress and track their development in science. There will also be a Year 10 GCSE science MOCK exam which will cover everything in paper 1 science.
In Term 1, Year 10 students studying the triple science GCSE will start with ensuring their basic science understanding is solid by recapping content taught in KS3.
The following topics will then be taught in Term 1:
- Quantitative chemistry
- Chemical changes
- Atomic structure
- Forces
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Energy changes
- Forces
- Waves
- Homeostasis and response
Finally, in Term 3, students will study:
- Space
- Organic
- Chemical analysis
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 10 students.
Year 11 overview 2026-2027 = combined science
Throughout the year, students will complete end of topic assessments to support their progress and track their development in science. There will also be a two Year 11 GCSE science MOCK exam which will cover everything in paper 1 and paper 2 science.
The following topics will then be taught in Term 1:
- Ecology
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
- Using resources
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Inheritance and evolution
- Magnetism and electromagnetism
Finally, in Term 3, students will revising for their final GCSE exams
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 111 students.
Year 11 overview 2026-2027 = triple science
Throughout the year, students will complete end of topic assessments to support their progress and track their development in science. There will also be a two Year 11 GCSE science MOCK exam which will cover everything in paper 1 and paper 2 science.
The following topics will then be taught in Term 1:
- Chemistry of the atmosphere
- Chemical analysis
- Magnetism and electromagnetism
- Ecology
In Term 2, students will move on to:
- Inheritance and evolution
- Using resources
- Space
Finally, in Term 3, students will revising for their final GCSE exams
We look forward to an exciting year of scientific discovery and skill development for all Year 11 students.
Biology Learning Journey
Chemistry Learning Journey
Physics Learning Journey
Supporting Students outside the Classroom
- Youtube – Primrose kitten and Free Science Lessons
- BBC Bitesize
- Seneca Learning
- Google Classroom
Equipment
- Pens
- Pencil
- Ruler
- Protractor
- Scientific Calculator
Extra-Curricular
Science Clinic – GCSE support sessions run by Mr Hughes on selected lunchtimes.
After School Science revision run by all members of the Science team.
Career links
- Health related careers including Nursing, Physiotherapy, Speech Therapy, Doctor, Dentist, Midwife, Paramedic, Operating Department Technician and Pharmacist
- Careers related to animals and the environment, including Conservation,
- Farming, Gardening, Vet, Veterinary Nursing, Pet Shop Assistant, Kennel Worker, Groom
- Engineering
- Teaching
- Laboratory Technician
- Forensic Scientist
- Research Scientist
- Mechanic
Useful links
https://www.bbc.co.uk/bitesize/subjects/zng4d2p
https://www.thenational.academy/teachers/programmes/science-secondary-ks3/units
https://senecalearning.com/en-GB/
Science Trips
Science Trip to Belgium
In February, students embarked on an exciting and educational trip to Belgium, visiting a range of scientific and cultural attractions in Brussels and beyond. The visit provided students with valuable opportunities to explore science beyond the classroom while experiencing a different culture.
The trip began with a visit to the Planetarium in Brussels, where students enjoyed an immersive presentation exploring the origins and development of our planet. The stunning visual displays helped bring complex scientific concepts to life and inspired curiosity about the universe and our place within it.
Students then visited the Atomium, one of Belgium’s most iconic landmarks. Designed to represent the structure of an iron crystal, the Atomium combines science, engineering and architecture. From the top of the structure, students were able to enjoy panoramic views across Brussels while learning about the history, design and significance of this remarkable building.
A highlight of the trip was a full day at the Euro Space Centre. Through a range of interactive activities, students experienced aspects of astronaut training and space exploration. Activities included simulated Moon and Mars walks, allowing students to investigate how gravity affects weight on different celestial bodies. Students also explored astronaut training equipment and took part in engaging workshops that deepened their understanding of space science and human exploration beyond Earth.
The final day allowed students to explore the historic centre of Brussels, sampling local culture and cuisine while reflecting on the experiences of the previous days.
The trip was an outstanding success, combining scientific learning with memorable experiences. Students returned with a greater appreciation of astronomy, space exploration and engineering, as well as many lasting memories of their time in Belgium.
