Shelley College: Science

Head of Department: Mr P Beaumont

AS to A-level Edexcel Physics covers many topics from the traditional, mechanics, to the less familiar, astrophysics. All the modules are contextual and deal with physics that we all experience in our everyday life. The course is taught via the E-Learning portal which is accessible from home.

Examples of modules taught: Higher Faster Stronger, The Sound of Music, Good enough to eat, Spare Part Surgery.

Sixth-Form Chemistry at Shelley College is a practical based course that provides a variety of opportunities to learn about chemistry concepts in the real world. The Salters course allows students to demonstrate their skills both in Year 12 and Year 13 with a four week individual investigation. Lessons can be accessed from home via our E-Learning portal.

Examples of modules taught: Elements of Life & Developing Fuels, What's in a Medicine and Colarby Design.

Sixth-Form Biology at Shelley College consists of theory units, practical work, examinations and coursework. Students who take Biology as an A-Level go on a residential field trip at the Aberystwyth University which takes place in early July.

Edexcel have developed a course at the University of York and we were a pilot college. It is a fully interactive course that differs significantly from traditional Biology courses in that the topics taught throughout are cleverly built around a context storyline which relates to the application of Biology in the modern world.

Examples of modules taught: Lifestyle, Transport Genes and Health, Development of Plants and Environment, The National Environment & Species Survival, Energy Exercise and Coordination.

Applied science is a vocational, hands on course where the students find out about science in the work place. Students develop their experimental skills by following standard procedures and planning and carrying out investigations. As Applied Science courses are more practical the majority of the assessment is based on portfolio work:

GCSE: 50% Portfolio

AS & A2: 66.7% Portfolio

Applied Science is a relevant and practical course which suits students with an interest in science and those which want to continue with it at a higher level.

Examples of modules taught: Science at work, Energy Transfer System, The actions and development of Medicines, Harnessing Chemicals.