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 (Years 10 & 11 – 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 Department runs a weekly STEM Club for KS3 pupils to develop their interest in science through a variety of fun practical activities. Activities have included dissecting fish, making DNA from sweets, making bath bombs, investigating the Fire Triangle, designing bridges, racing maggots to calculate speed and using circuits to make LED cards.
Other Activities
Pupils at KS4 have the opportunity to visit CERN in Geneva to learn about particle Physics and the Field Studies Centre in Epping Forest to learn about ecology.
The Department provides many opportunities to take part in competitions. These have included an internal Nature Photography competition and Bridge Building Challenge as well as external competitions such as the British Biology Challenge, the Top of the Bench Chemistry Competition Years and the Physics Olympiad.
We also celebrate British Science Week each year with a full week of lab based activities, quizzes and competitions as well as inviting guest speakers to talk about their careers in Science. Previous speakers have included those working in medicine, virology, engineering and computer science.
