d'Overbroeck's College Oxford

Leckford Place School

• Introduction
• Letter from the Head
• Academic
• Pastoral Care
• Admissions
• FAQs
• Transport
• Sixth Form
• Parents
• Photographs
• Find us
• Term Dates
• Important Dates
• Holiday Jazz Course
• Leckford Pupils
• Staff
• Inspection 2007
• Artweeks
• Moodle

The study of science touches on every area of our lives and encompasses many skills. It helps us to understand the world around us and gives us the insight we need to make informed and valued judgements in all walks of life.

Traditionally science is taught as three disciplines: chemistry, physics and biology. At Leckford Place we continue with that tradition. In years 7 and 8 the three sciences are taught by one teacher ensuring that common themes can be easily and effectively linked. There is a strong practical basis to the course that lays the foundations for later work. In year 9, separate specialist teachers deliver the three sciences. A foundation GCSE course in covered in year 9 so that all students are well grounded in the three subjects before they make their GCSE choices.

At GCSE we offer the OCR Gateway specifications (from September 2006). These courses are academically rigorous enabling students to continue their science studies into the 6th form. They are also balanced and relevant to many aspects of our modern society so as to appeal to the non-scientists giving them a firm understanding of how science works.

There is a broad range of skills that we aim to develop through the study of science. These include the analytical and mathematical skills that are needed to analyse data, the language and essay writing skills needed to express fact and opinion clearly and concisely and ICT skills that are needed to research information and in the presentation of work. All this is based on experimental evidence that is used to draw conclusions and shape opinion.