Science

The Science team are dedicated to produce:

• Ridgeway scientists who are knowledgeable, confident, curious, can link ideas and are resilient problem solvers who enjoy science.
• Excellent outcomes which enable students to take the next steps in their education.

This will be achieved via:

• Development of the communication of ideas through spoken/written language and mathematical methods.
• Quality Discussion and Questioning.
• Lessons ‘Framed’ around real life applications (this should be shared as an intended outcome or overarching question).
• Embedded practical skill and understanding over a series of lessons.
• Quality Feedback via different mediums.
• Modelling abstract ideas and ideal answers.

The KS3 curriculum is based on a study of the 4 key models that underpin scientific understanding; Cells, Particles, Forces and Energy. Alongside this students will be taught the skills they need to work scientifically. They will learn to use equipment with accuracy and precision, to work as a team, to plan their time and resources effectively and about the wide variety of ways in which results can be presented.

The Team

Mr T Pittaway - Head of Science: pittawayt@ridgewayschool.com

Mrs C Hockin -Subject Leader Chemistry: hockinc@ridgewayschool.com

Mrs L McMeeking - Subject Leader Biology: mcmeekingl@ridgewayschool.com

Mr P Kench - Subject Leader Physics: kenchp@ridgewayschool.com

Miss M Tuck - KS3 & BTEC Science Coordinator: tuckm@ridgewayschool.com

Mr M Wakefield - wakefieldm@ridgewayschool.com

Miss C Gallagher - gallagherc@ridgewayschool.com

Mr M Fletcher - fletcherm@ridgewayschool.com

Mr L Gregory - gregoryl@ridgewayschool.com

Miss A Case - casea@ridgewayschool.com

Mr Wilton - wiltonr@ridgewayschool.com

KS3 Curriculum Information

Time Allocation

• Year 7 have 7 lessons of Science a fortnight.
• Year 8 have 7 lessons of Science a fortnight.
• Year 7 have 7 lessons of Science a fortnight.

Setting Arrangements

Students are set by ability in Year 8 and 9. But in Year 7, students are taught in mixed abilities. This is reviewed regularly with changes made as appropriate.

Homework

Homework is set regularly as per the school’s Homework Timetable.