Science

Aims 

Science is a key subject enabling students to understand the world around them. At Hatherop we pride ourselves on the range and depth of practical activities in which the students engage. Early use of specialist teaching and excellent laboratory facilities enable students to develop their skills and acquire knowledge in a fun but demanding manner. 

The three primary aims of the Science Department are: 
• To develop a positive attitude to science and learn to use it with confidence and for pleasure 
• To develop enquiring minds 
• To give pupils as much practical experience of science as possible 

The contribution of Science to pupils’ personal development 

Science gives practical opportunities for the development of skills necessary for effective living; observation, prediction, appreciation of relationships, recognition of cause and effect situations and problem solving. It develops a range of personal qualities; curiosity, scepticism, respect for the environment, critical evaluation of evidence, appreciation of culture and an insight into man’s place in the world. It also lays the foundations for the development of individual talents, which may contribute towards the nation’s scientific effort within an ever-expanding technological age. Our pupils are encouraged to develop all these parts of their thinking. They are asked to embrace other points of view and to respect another individual’s ideas without necessarily compromising their own. They are expected to relate their experiences within lessons to everyday situations and to develop their understanding of how the world survives and prospers, thanks to scientific research and innovations. 

Curriculum 

Kindergarten and transition do not have formal units of study but common topics that crop up are: Minibeasts; Farms; The Environment; Materials such as sand and water; Changing Materials e.g. cooking; the senses; snow, ice and state changes. 

Reception up to Prep 3 gradually build up key practical skills, reasoning ability and scientific vocabulary whilst covering a large range of topics complemented by appropriate trips and visiting exhibits, speakers and theatre. 
Work then becomes more formal as they move to the laboratory environment, although the emphasis remains firmly on practical investigation and self-discovery. 
Prep 4 to Prep 6 focus on the Common Entrance 11+ syllabus 
Prep 6 to Prep 8 work through the Common Entrance 13+ syllabus 

At Hatherop the work schemes are designed to regularly revisit topics enabling students to review and then extend their knowledge as they progress through the school. 

Timetable Allocation: 

• Every year group is given the same allocation. 6 lessons per week are to be given over to Science teaching. (3hrs) 
• From Reception to Prep 3, the class teacher is responsible for ensuring the time is split between all 3 Science disciplines and this is overseen by the Head of Department. 
• In Preps 4 & 5 a science teacher teaches the 3 disciplines in the lab 
• In Preps 6, 7 & 8, 2 lessons a week are for Biology and 4 lessons a week for the Physical Sciences, both areas being taught by specialists. 

Head of Department: Mr Peter Dobson B.Sc. PGCE