Science

The ICS boasts a thriving Science Department. There are three modern and well-equipped laboratories and each are fitted with a comprehensive range of school scientific equipment, as well as a computer and a digital projector and/or interactive white board. This enables the department to use a variety of teaching media, as well as being able to access a huge range of educational websites and scientific programmes. The laboratories are designed to enable the sciences to be taught to a high level across all Key Stages. This in turn allows students to participate in extensive practical work which we in the Science Department see as a crucial part of their science education as it encourages students to think, question and investigate rather than become focused on knowledge retention.

The Science Department has a full time qualified laboratory technician working alongside the teaching staff.

KS3

The Science Department follows schemes of work based on the QCA topics set out in the National Curriculum of England and Wales. This provides a good basis for content, knowledge, understanding and skills for progression to Key Stage 4, and enables students to access the curriculum in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Students in Years 7 and 8 will also study CASE (Cognitive Acceleration through Science Education) alongside the sciences. This additional programme of study encourages students to develop critical thinking and independent learning through problem solving and collaborative exercises.

KS4

At Key Stage 4 students have the option to study IGCSE in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Whilst the majority of students will choose to study two sciences, there is the option to take the third science for those students who have a special interest in the sciences. From September 2011, the school will adopt the EDEXCEL IGCSE syllabus which provides a sound foundation for progression to studies at A Level or comparable post age 16 qualifications.

KS5

Biology, Chemistry and Physics are offered at Key Stage 5 and the Science Department follows the Cambridge syllabus.