Queen Ethelburga’s has well-equipped laboratory facilities in a dedicated STEAM building for students in Key Stages 4 and 5.
Both schools teach Physics, Biology and Chemistry with the option to broaden scientific knowledge through the study of Psychology, Computer Science, Physical Education or Sport.
You can also enter many national competitions and study Medicine or Veterinary Medicine as an additional activity.
Key Stage Four
In Key Stage Four, you have the option to study Science as a Single, Dual or Separate Award for Physics, Biology and
Chemistry GCSE.
| Single Award Science |
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| The Single Award is a one GCSE qualification that provides the foundation for understanding the material world. The course teaches the essential aspects of the knowledge, methods, processes and uses of science and covers topics in Biology, Chemistry and Physics. |
| Dual Award Science |
| The Dual Award is a two GCSE qualification that covers more content than the Single Award. In this course, you will delve into the main scientific teachings of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics and practise experiments in the science laboratories. |
| Separate Sciences (Physics, Biology and Chemistry) |
| Separate Sciences means you study each discipline (Physics, Biology and Chemistry) as a separate GCSE. At Queen Ethelburga’s you can choose how many disciplines you would like to study but most students choose to study all three separate sciences. |
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Additional Qualifications In QE College And QE FacultyQE College and QE Faculty offer additional scientific subjects to take as a GCSE or BTEC qualification.
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Key Stage Five
At Key Stage Five, you have the option to study Biology, Chemistry, Physics or Psychology A Level at both QE College and QE Faculty.
If you are attending College, you could also take Computer Science as an A Level. Or, if you are attending Faculty, you could take Applied Science BTEC, Physical Education A Level or Sport BTEC.
Further Your Scientific Knowledge Beyond The Curriculum
As part of the Stretch and Challenge provision at Queen Ethelburga’s, there are plenty of activities outside of timetabled lessons to enhance your subject knowledge and advance your university application. The Science and Careers Departments together host student-led Medicine and Veterinary Medicine societies for those applying to Medicine at university.
Many of our students achieve awards in national science competitions and challenges. You could participate in:
- Institute of Civil Engineers, Cityzen Award
- Cambridge Chemistry Challenge
- British Physics Olympiad
- British Biology Olympiad
- UK Biology Challenge
- University of Warwick National Scientific Challenge
- CREST Award
Student Testimonials
This is what students have said about the courses:
“I chose BTEC Applied Science because I like to do lots of different scientific experiments. I think experiments are interesting and can also improve my thinking ability. I have enjoyed all units, especially those with experiments.”
“I furthered my knowledge of Biology by taking the A Level, which was a great decision because the topics are all fascinating and jam-packed with content. My favourite topics are DNA and response to stimuli! I am now applying to read Medicine so I can use my skills.”
“I chose Physics because I like how it applies Maths to the real world. I also enjoy putting theoretical concepts into practice through the required practicals. I know that the skills I have acquired through the A Level course will be hugely beneficial when it comes to my university studies.”
