Science
Palmers Green High School has an active, vibrant and thriving Science Department. All three sciences (Physics, Chemistry and Biology) are taught separately by specialist teachers in small learning groups from Year 7 onwards. Throughout all year groups pupils are guided and encouraged to develop scientific knowledge and conceptual understanding through the specific disciplines of Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
The study of Science at PGHS enables pupils to gain the ability to evaluate claims based on science by applying the critical analysis of the methodology, evidence and conclusions, both qualitatively and quantitatively. Pupils learn to apply observational, practical, modelling, enquiry and problem-solving skills in the laboratory, in the field and in other learning environments. Their understanding of the nature, processes and methods of science, through different types of scientific enquiries, are developed and pupils are able to answer scientific questions about the world around them.
KS3 (Years 7 and 8)
Pupils follow a two-year course in Years 7 and 8, enabling them to start the GCSE in Year 9. We follow the Science Progress course, which is highly engaging, inspirational and develops independent learning and communication skills. Pupils work through Books 1 and 2, which build and assess KS3 Science knowledge, understanding and acquiring ‘Working Scientifically’ skills which ensure a solid foundation for GCSE and further study of science.
Year 9/KS4 (GCSE)
Please click on the link to see GCSE curriculum (link will take you to Science page of Options booklet.
Extra-Curricular Activities and Enrichment
Science Surgeries
Surgeries, run by subject specialists, occur throughout the week for all year groups. Pupils who might want extra help on a topic or those who have been absent in a lesson attend and are able to benefit from individual attention.
STEM Club
The STEM Club allows pupils to develop their interest in science through a variety of practical activities. Each topic is repeated in order to ensure that all pupils have an opportunity to participate in every session. The KS3 STEM Club is weekly.
Various educational visits and activities take place throughout the academic year, for example, Year 10 and 11 pupils visit CERN in Geneva each year, and Year 11 visit Epping Forest for ecology field work.
Year 9 and 10 pupils also take part in the British Biology Challenge; Years 9-11 the Top of the Bench Chemistry Competition Years and the Physics Olympiad for KS4 pupils.
We run a Super Star CREST Award for Year 5 and 6 pupils, a STEM Conference run by NCLS for Year 10 and 11, poster competitions, and much more!
Other events are organised in conjunction with scientific trends, including inviting guest speakers into School as well as an organised Science Week with visiting speakers, competitions and a daily lab session activity based on the yearly theme.
