St Francis Xavier’s College
The Science Department
Scienceis a very successful, well-established department of 9 full time teachers and 2 part time teachers supported by 3 full time specialist technicians. Examination results are consistently good and the department is looking to continue to build on this sustained success during the next phase of its development. The department has contributed significantly to the school's reputation for academic success and we pride ourselves on having a dynamic approach to teaching and learning.
The Science Department has a total of 11 fully serviced laboratories, located in a brand new, purpose built building opened this year. The three Science subjects are located on designated levels in the building and are supported by a subject area prep room on each floor. To help facilitate independent research and complete coursework, each subject in the department has access to a trolley of 32 hybrid tablets. Where possible every teacher has their own teaching room giving staff their own working space to facilitate marking and planning.
Science is valued by students who view it as a subject that can enhance their opportunities when they leave school. As such it is a very popular choice for many students at Advanced Level where we have an excellent record of giving successful students the confidence to consider studying science subjects to post A ‘Level.
At key stage 3 we follow a 2 year course aimed at laying the foundation for further studies. During year 9 students begin their GCSE course. For students taking GCSE’s we offer courses leading to Separate Science,Trilogy Science. These are examined by AQA. For those who go on to study Advanced level we follow AQA’s Biology, Chemistry and Physics specification A.
Chemistry
The Chemistry department’s mission is to encourage all pupils to develop their understandingand interest in the vast and varied world of chemistry; to helpthem to recognise the importance of the subject in our everyday life and also prepare all of ourstudents to take advantage of the opportunities the subject will provide in higher education or the workplace.
At key stage 4 we currently have approximately 60 students in both years 10 and 11 studying GCSE Chemistry to higher level. Those studying Science are usually taught by teachers within their specialism. At key stage 5 in year 12 we have 20 students studying AS and there are 12 students completing their ChemistryA level in year 13.
R:/Job Descriptions/DEPARTMENT PROFILE – SCIENCE Chemistry 2018