Science Curriculum Overview
At Forge Valley, our Science curriculum is designed to inspire curiosity, build confidence, and develop a deep understanding of the world around us. Science is a highly practical subject, and our students learn through hands-on investigation, experimentation and real-world application. Through Biology, Chemistry and Physics, pupils gain the knowledge, skills and scientific thinking needed to make sense of natural phenomena and technological advances that shape modern life.
Our Science curriculum aims to:
Develop Scientific Knowledge and Understanding
Students study key concepts across the three disciplines:
- Biology – the study of life, organisms and ecosystems
- Chemistry – the properties, composition and reactions of matter
- Physics – the principles that govern forces, energy and the physical universe
Learners build a secure foundation of scientific understanding that supports further study and everyday decision‑making.
Foster Practical and Investigative Skills
Science at Forge Valley is rooted in discovery. Students will:
- Plan and carry out experiments
- Make accurate observations and measurements
- Interpret data and draw evidence‑based conclusions
- Evaluate the reliability and validity of results
This practical approach encourages students to think like scientists and understand how scientific knowledge is developed.
Build Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills
Students explore how scientific ideas evolve over time, examining:
- The historical development of key scientific theories
- The role of evidence, peer review and technological innovation
- The impact of science on society and the environment
We encourage critical questioning, problem‑solving and logical reasoning—skills that are valuable in education, careers and everyday life.
Studying Science opens the door to a huge range of opportunities. Whether pupils want to pursue practical careers, academic routes, or simply build essential life skills, Science provides a strong foundation. The subject develops curiosity, problem‑solving, resilience and analytical thinking—qualities that are highly valued across every sector.
Higher Education Pathways
A strong background in Biology, Chemistry and Physics can lead to further study at:
A‑Level or Post‑16 Courses
- Biology, Chemistry, Physics
- Environmental Science
- Psychology
- Applied Science
- Engineering
- Health and Social Care
University Degrees and Higher-Level Study
Science qualifications are stepping stones to a wide range of degrees, including:
- Medicine, Dentistry & Veterinary Science
- Nursing, Midwifery & Allied Health Professions
- Biomedical Science & Genetics
- Pharmacology & Forensic Science
- Chemistry, Biochemistry & Materials Science
- Physics, Astrophysics & Space Science
- Mechanical, Civil, Electrical & Chemical Engineering
- Computer Science & Artificial Intelligence
- Marine Biology, Zoology & Environmental Science
- Geography, Geology & Earth Sciences
- Psychology, Neuroscience & Cognitive Studies
Science keeps future pathways open and supports progression into both academic and vocational routes.
Career Opportunities Linked to Science
Science is one of the most versatile subjects, leading to careers across healthcare, technology, research, engineering and beyond.
Health, Medicine & Care
- Doctor, nurse, midwife
- Paramedic
- Pharmacist
- Physiotherapist
- Laboratory technician
- Radiographer and imaging specialist
- Healthcare scientist
Engineering & Technology
- Mechanical, civil, chemical or electrical engineer
- Robotics and automation engineer
- Aerospace or automotive engineer
- Software developer or AI specialist
- Renewable energy technician
Research & Scientific Development
- Laboratory researcher
- Biomedical scientist
- Climate and environmental researcher
- Forensic scientist
- Food technologist
- Materials scientist
Environment, Conservation & Wildlife
- Ecologist
- Marine biologist
- Environmental consultant
- Sustainability officer
- Conservation worker
Business, Industry & Innovation
- Data analyst
- Quality control specialist
- Product developer
- Manufacturing and industrial technician
- Science communication and journalism
Education & Public Services
- Science teacher or technician
- Armed forces and defence roles
- Police and fire services
- Public health and government scientific advisory roles
Science also supports progression into apprenticeships in fields such as engineering, laboratory science, healthcare and digital technology.
Life Skills Gained from Studying Science
Science isn’t just about careers—it builds essential life skills that benefit students throughout their lives:
Problem‑solving and logical thinking
Understanding how to approach challenges based on evidence.
Practical and technical skills
Using equipment safely, recording results and analysing data.
Understanding the world
Knowing how the body works, how medicines are made, and how the environment is changing.
Decision‑making based on evidence
Evaluating risks, interpreting information and understanding cause and effect.
Teamwork and communication
Working collaboratively during experiments and investigations.
These are skills valued in every job and essential for navigating everyday life in an increasingly scientific and technological world.
You don’t need to be a science expert to help your child succeed. With a few simple strategies, you can help build their confidence, curiosity and understanding across Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Here are practical, accessible ways to support them at home.
1. Encourage Curiosity and Everyday Questioning
Science is everywhere—in cooking, weather, nature, technology and health. You can support your child by:
- Talking about everyday scientific ideas (“Why does bread rise?”, “How do planes stay in the air?”)
- Encouraging them to ask questions and think about how things work
- Watching short science videos together (e.g., BBC Bitesize, TED‑Ed, National Geographic)
- Visiting museums, zoos or science centres when possible
A curious mindset greatly improves engagement and understanding.
2. Support Good Learning Habits
Science rewards consistent review. Help your child to:
- Re-read class notes and knowledge organisers regularly
- Break revision into short, manageable sessions
- Use flashcards or quizzes for keywords and concepts
- Keep homework deadlines organised and avoid last-minute rushes
Even 10 minutes a day improves long-term memory.
Make Use of Reliable Online Resources
You don’t need specialist knowledge—directing your child to good resources is enough. Useful, pupil-friendly sites include:
- BBC Bitesize Science (clear explanations and videos)
- Seneca Learning (interactive revision)
- FuseSchool and Crash Course Kids (short YouTube lessons)
You can support simply by encouraging regular use.
Help with Practical and Mathematical Skills
Science involves simple maths, data handling and practical thinking. You can support by encouraging your child to:
- Practise interpreting tables, graphs and charts
- Use a calculator confidently
- Read questions carefully and break problems into steps
- Explain how they reached an answer
You don’t have to know the answer—listening to them think it through is incredibly helpful.
Encourage Reading Around Science
Reading helps build vocabulary and deepens understanding. Try:
- Science news aimed at young people
- Magazines like The Week Junior Science + Nature
- Non-fiction books about animals, space, inventions or the human body
- Documentaries or series (David Attenborough’s programmes are excellent)
Anything that makes science feel enjoyable is beneficial.
Talk Positively About Science
Your attitude matters. Try to:
- Encourage effort over perfection
- Praise resilience when topics feel challenging
- Show enthusiasm for their learning
- Avoid saying “I was never good at science”—confidence is contagious!
A positive mindset helps pupils persevere with complex ideas.
Provide a Supportive Environment
You can help your child succeed by ensuring they have:
- A quiet place to complete homework
- Basic organisation tools (folder, highlighters, notebook)
- Access to their science books and equipment
Helping them stay organised boosts independence and confidence.
Communicate with the Science Department
If your child is struggling or needs advice:
- Contact their Science teacher
- Ask about extra resources or revision materials
- Check if there are intervention sessions or revision classes available
Teachers can give personalised support to help your child progress.
Year 7
Term 1
- Biology: Cells and microscopes, structure and body systems.
- Chemistry: Elements and the particle theory.
- Physics: Introduction to energy.
Term 2
- Biology: Photosynthesis and respiration.
- Chemistry: Compounds and mixtures, separating techniques.
- Physics: Forces.
Term 3
- Biology: Food chains and food webs.
- Chemistry: Acids and bases and simple chemical techniques.
- Physics: Electricity and magnetism.
Year 8
Term 1
- Biology: Health and lifestyle.
- Chemistry: The Periodic table.
- Physics: Waves, sound and light.
Term 2
- Biology: Reproduction.
- Chemistry: Reactions of metals and The Earth.
- Physics: Motion and Pressure.
Term 3
- Biology: Adaptation and inheritance.
- Chemistry: Metals and materials.
- Physics: Energy and Space.
Year 9
Term 1
- Biology: Cell structure and function. Using microscopes.
- Chemistry: Atomic structure, particles and the periodic table.
- Physics: Energy, changes of state, the particle model and space.
Term 2
- Biology: DNA and enzymes.
- Chemistry: Purity and separation of chemicals.
- Physics: Magnetism and Electricity.
Term 3
- Biology: Respiration and Photosynthesis.
- Chemistry: Metals, Recycling and the Atmosphere.
- Physics: Motion.
Mastery
For each of the three terms in an academic year, all pupils will study one biology, one chemistry and one physics topic. For each topic all pupils will have ten key questions that they need to learn the answers to. Pupils are expected to complete the quiz answer sheet every week, improving their recall of the key questions, the purpose of this is to allow pupils the opportunity to consolidate their knowledge at home.
All pupils will have an end of topic test, which will include some of the key questions from the topic. We will use the information as a diagnostic tool to inform teachers of any knowledge gaps which may need to be addressed.
Year 7
Year 8
Students follow the OCR Gateway Science Course. The aim of the course is to interest and engage students in science and give opportunities to:
- Develop a critical approach to scientific evidence and methods
- Acquire and apply skills, knowledge and understanding of how science works and its essential role in society
- Acquire scientific skills, knowledge and understanding necessary for progression to further learning.
The Combined Science course comprises:
- 6 Biology Topics
- 6 Chemistry Topics
- 6 Physics Topics
More information can be found Here
The Triple Science course comprises:
- 6 Biology Topics
- 6 Chemistry Topics
- 8 Physics Topics
More information can be found at:
Biology – Here
Chemistry – Here
Physics – Here
Resources
Explore helpful resources, homework tasks, step-by-step tutorials, and detailed guides to support your learning at KS3 & KS4.
