Why do we teach science?

At St Paul’s Academy, we teach science to ignite curiosity, develop critical thinking, and provide students with the tools to understand the world around them. Through Biology, students explore living systems, from cells to ecosystems, understanding how life thrives and adapts. In Chemistry, students investigate the substances that make up our world, uncovering the principles behind reactions, materials, and everyday products. In Physics, students discover how forces and energy govern the universe.

We emphasise the real-world applications of science, showing students how knowledge of science shapes medicine, technology, environmental solutions, and innovation in daily life. By connecting scientific concepts to practical challenges, we prepare students not only for academic success but also to become informed, curious, and responsible citizens capable of making a difference in the world.

GCSE Science

Exam Board: AQA

What will I study? 

Undertaking Separate Science will build on the core knowledge you will learn in Combined Science and develop your understanding of the scientific world. By choosing Separate Science, you will gain a GCSE in each of the scientific disciplines separately. This gives you an opportunity to further develop your scientific understanding whilst also broadening your knowledge of the scientific content. 

Undertaking the separate sciences is suitable for those who enjoy the hard work and intellectual demand involved in the study of science. Studying separate sciences at GCSE will allow you to unpick how the world around you works and consider how advances in science have led to some incredible breakthroughs. The implications and impact on our world of scientific advances will also be studied. 

What skills will I develop? 

Studying separate sciences will help you to develop essential key skills that will serve you well in many A Level subjects and as the foundation for a wide range of careers. These skills include analysing data, evaluating information, conducting fair research and the ability to recall and apply facts to new situations. The skills you are taught are embedded whilst learning new content across a wide range of topics that build on the combined science content and so, in addition, you will also learn about biology: cultivating microorganisms, monoclonal antibodies, plant defences, the brain, the eye, and the homeostatic control of our bodies. Chemistry: Transition metals, nanoparticles, atom economy, titrations, alcohols, carboxylic acids, and esters, testing for elements, corrosion and NPK fertilisers. Physics: Pressure in gases, radiation, moments, levers, lenses, loudspeakers, waves, microphones, transformers, and the solar system 

How will I be assessed? 

The course consists of six externally examined assessments which contain a mixture of different question styles, including multiple choice, structured, closed short answer and open response.

Two written papers – Biology 

Two written papers – Chemistry 

Two written papers – Physics 

(Exam time for each paper is 1 hour, 45 minutes) 

Where can this course take me? 

This course leads well onto all science A-level courses and careers in a wide range of sectors including biomedical science, chemical engineering, pharmacy, radiology, dentistry, medicine, midwifery; nursing; nuclear engineering, petroleum chemistry, psychology and clinical or laboratory-based research. 

Head of Department: Ms. B Afolayan

Second in Charge: Mr. H Sharif

KS3 Coordinator: Ms. F Akpe

Line Manager: Ms. A Busia