Science provides the foundations for understanding the world through the specific disciplines of biology, chemistry and physics. Science has changed our lives and is vital to the world’s future prosperity. At Lliswerry High School all pupils are taught essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science. Through building up a body of key foundational knowledge and concepts, pupils are encouraged to recognise the power of rational explanation and develop a sense of excitement and curiosity about natural phenomena. They are encouraged to understand how science can be used to explain what is occurring, predict how things will behave, and analyse causes.

KS3 Science

In year 7 Science is taught as part of the launch curriculum, where learners will explore Science based projects such as ‘Designing a theme park’ and ‘Space’. However, learners also experience 2 hours per fortnight in a Science laboratory with a specialist teacher, looking at the combined sciences; biology, chemistry and physics. This will incorporate a range of theoretical and practical methods, including investigations such as ‘What is the most effective method for killing bacteria?’ and ‘How to speed up a chemical reaction’. In year 8 and 9 the foundations in scientific thinking laid down through the launch curriculum are developed further with one specialist science teacher, who will teach them for 6 hours per fortnight.

KS4 Science

In year 10 and 11 our learners follow the WJEC Science qualifications and will study one of: Triple award Science (3 GCSEs), Double award Science (2 GCSEs) and Single Award Applied Science (1 GCSE). For Triple and Double award, learners will have 3 separate teachers, who are each specialist’s in their field of science. They will sit one exam at the end of year 10 in each of the 3 disciplines, followed by a second at the end of year 11 (6 exams in total). They will also complete a practical based exam and analysis task in year 11. Learners following the Single Award Applied Science pathway will complete 2 exams in year 10, as well as a practical exam and analysis task (controlled assessment). They will not study Science in year 11.

KS4 Electronics

Learners also have the option to study Electronics as an option at GCSE as an SS course, studied over one year. It encourages learners to develop confidence in, and a positive attitude towards, electronics and to recognise its importance in their own lives and in today's technological society. Learners will explore systems, their components and sequencing through a combination of examined units and controlled assessment

KS5 Science

Currently we offer A levels in Biology and Chemistry on site at Lliswerry, as well as A Level Physics through collaboration with St Julian’s 6^th form. Learners in these subjects go on to study subjects such as medicine, dentistry, veterinary science and much more.

We also offer the BTEC Level 3 Applied Science qualification, studied over 2 years. This provides a route into Science based courses for learners who do not quite meet the requirement for studying A-Level sciences.