We offer GCSE science as a single, double and triple option under the AQA specification.  In addition to this we offer BTEC First Applied Science at level 2 where students can attain a pass, merit or distinction in the range of science tasks.

BTEC First Applied Science at St Mark’s C of E Academy provides students with skills and knowledge for all aspects of science in a work related context. These are assignment based which encourage students to develop their IT skills to produce documents for assessment on scientific related scenarios as well as exploring a range of scientific concepts. Other skills such as researching, preparing and giving presentations, producing scientific reports and following instructions for practical activity are developed through the course.  BTEC Level 2 Applied Science can prepare students to go onto Level 3 and obtain a BTEC National qualification in forensic or medical science or any health profession. 

KS5:

Biology:

At Key Stage 5, we follow the OCR AS and A2 Specification. The specification’s modular structure allows students to take exams at the end of each unit.

The course involves a study of the main chemicals in the cell, providing an introduction to biochemistry and emphasising how all life on earth follows a similar pattern.  The cell itself is studied in detail and then how cells are specialised to form the different organs in animals and plants.  Genetics considers the laws governing inheritance and what we know about the structure of the gene, whilst evolution involves some of the great ideas in biology and provides a unifying principle for the subject. 

The subject builds on the learners GCSE knowledge and is a technical one drawing on parts of chemistry, geography and mathematics.  It is also a practical subject and involves microscope work and experiments in the lab.

Possible career choices that require A-level biology include: biological testing, biotechnology, independent research, food industry jobs, nutrition, medicine, doctor, nurse, veterinarian, zoologist, zookeeper, animal care, veterinary nurse, scientist, amongst a huge range of others. In fact, having an A-level in biology will put you in great stead for a huge range of careers, as it is a great qualification to have.

Chemistry:

At Key Stage 5, we follow the OCR AS and A2 Specification. The specification’s modular structure allows students to take exams at the end of each unit.

The course involves a study of chemical behaviour and reactions, looking at applications of biochemistry in industry and the impact on society.  We will explore organic chemistry and the synthetic pathways which lead to essential chemical compounds used in everyday life.  Chemistry is a suitable subject to study alongside A level biology as a number of concepts overlap. The A level course extends concepts studied at GCSE level and allows progression into higher education.

Examples of possible careers students can progress into are Pharmacology, Pharmacy, Medicine, Chemical engineering and teaching.

Physics:

Students will study advanced OCR Physics which covers Mechanics, Electrons, Waves and Photons Newtonian World and Fields, Particles and Frontiers of Physics. Learning is done both in the classroom and through outreach activities to give students a better scope of learning the Physics content. Physics is a dynamic field of study which explains various phenomenon’s that directs the Universe that we live in. It opens up avenues to greater and higher level thinking and enables students to investigate and analyse different scientific areas that affect our daily lives. It prepares the young mind to model a concept and evaluate the possible outcomes.

The department has developed extensive links with Imperial College, King’s College and St George’s Medical school. Students involved have the opportunity to experience a ‘hands-on’ approach to Science and attend lectures and live debates as well as experiencing life as a medical student.