Science
The Science Department
We are a successful department that is full of energy and strives for the highest achievement from pupils at Hobart. We have high expectations of all students. We expect them to work hard and behave excellently at all times and we endeavour to work in partnership with parents to support their child’s learning.
Science is taught in six specialist laboratories. These provide a colourful, stimulating and vibrant atmosphere for learning. The Science department consists of seven Science teachers, supported by one technician. The specialist teachers have a wealth of experience and expertise which is used to support learning and stimulate interest from students.
The Science Curriculum
Students in Years 7 to 8 (Key Stage 3) follow the Oxford Activate Science course. Each year pupils will work in groups, set by ability, covering a range of Biology, Chemistry and Physics topics with their class teacher. As well as learning the scientific content of the course, pupils will learn a range of practical skills and terminology, including how Science has developed through history. Students are formally assessed every half-term to monitor their progress.
Students in Years 9, 10 and 11 (Key Stage 4) have to take Science at GCSE, which is part of the English Baccalaureate (EBACC). The majority of students will study GCSE combined Science over three years. All Students that have a target of grade 4 or higher at the end of Year 9 will be able to choose to study separate Science GCSEs (AQA Biology, Chemistry and Physics). All GCSEs are examined at the end of Year 11.
Extra-Curricular Opportunities
Many extra-curricular activities are available to pupils during lunchtimes and after school for those interested in Science. Some of the fantastic events we run include: a Science club, the Eureka quiz, lunchtime challenges during National Science and Engineering Week, trips to local organisations and a Science lecture programme. In addition, revision sessions run after school and during lunchtimes to support pupils in preparation for examinations. There are always lots of things happening in the Science department to interest students.
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20 Careers supported by GCSE Science
Nurse
Job summary: Cares for patients in hospitals, GP surgeries, and community settings, monitoring health and supporting recovery.
Entry route: A‑levels or Level 3 Health & Social Care → Nursing degree → NMC registration
Key skills: Empathy, teamwork, communication, problem‑solving
Paramedic
Job summary: Responds to emergencies, provides life‑saving treatment, and transports patients safely to hospital.
Entry route: Paramedic Science degree or Ambulance Service apprenticeship
Key skills: Calm under pressure, quick decisions, physical fitness
Doctor / GP
Job summary: Diagnoses illnesses, provides treatments, prescribes medication, and manages long‑term health.
Entry route: A‑levels → Medicine degree → Foundation training
Key skills: Analysis, communication, resilience
Dentist
Job summary: Examines and treats teeth and gums and carries out dental procedures.
Entry route: Dentistry degree (BDS)
Key skills: Attention to detail, manual dexterity, communication
Veterinarian
Job summary: Treats sick or injured animals, performs surgery, and advises owners.
Entry route: Veterinary Medicine degree
Key skills: Precision, compassion, problem‑solving
Veterinary Nurse
Job summary: Supports vets, cares for animals, monitors treatment, and assists in procedures.
Entry route: Level 3 Diploma in Veterinary Nursing
Key skills: Practical skills, patience, teamwork
Pharmacist
Job summary: Dispenses medicines, advises on medication use, and provides health services.
Entry route: MPharm degree + training year
Key skills: Accuracy, scientific reasoning, customer care
Radiographer
Job summary: Uses imaging equipment like X‑rays, CT, and MRI to diagnose patients.
Entry route: Radiography degree
Key skills: Technical ability, attention to detail, communication
Biomedical Scientist
Job summary: Analyses samples in laboratories to help diagnose diseases.
Entry route: Biomedical Science degree + accredited training
Key skills: Lab skills, accuracy, analysis
Laboratory Technician
Job summary: Prepares experiments, supports testing, and maintains lab equipment.
Entry route: Science apprenticeship or college qualification
Key skills: Organisation, precision, practical awareness
Forensic Scientist
Job summary: Analyses evidence from crime scenes to support investigations.
Entry route: Forensic Science degree
Key skills: Critical thinking, accuracy, impartiality
Environmental Scientist
Job summary: Studies environmental issues and advises on solutions.
Entry route: Environmental Science or related degree
Key skills: Data skills, fieldwork, observation
Marine Biologist
Job summary: Researches ocean life and ecosystems, often in labs or at sea.
Entry route: Biology/Marine Biology degree
Key skills: Research, patience, teamwork
Chemical Engineer
Job summary: Designs processes for creating products like fuels, medicines, and food.
Entry route: Chemical Engineering degree
Key skills: Maths, problem‑solving, creativity
Mechanical Engineer
Job summary: Designs and maintains machines and systems.
Entry route: Engineering degree or apprenticeship
Key skills: Logical thinking, design, numeracy
Electrician
Job summary: Installs and maintains electrical systems in various buildings.
Entry route: Level 3 electrical apprenticeship
Key skills: Practical ability, safety awareness, problem‑solving
Plumber / Heating Engineer
Job summary: Installs and repairs plumbing and heating systems.
Entry route: Plumbing apprenticeship
Key skills: Hands‑on skills, troubleshooting, communication
Science Teacher
Job summary: Teaches science subjects, runs experiments, and supports learning.
Entry route: Science degree → PGCE or teaching apprenticeship
Key skills: Communication, organisation, enthusiasm
Physiotherapist
Job summary: Helps patients recover through movement and physical therapy.
Entry route: Physiotherapy degree
Key skills: Empathy, physical stamina, problem‑solving
Midwife
Job summary: Supports pregnant people before, during, and after birth.
Entry route: Midwifery degree
Key skills: Compassion, resilience, communication
| Contact Details |
|---|
| Mr S. Brown – Head of Science |
| GCSE Exam Board |
| All students follow AQA GCSE Science courses. |
Revision Books
All KS4 students are provided with CGP revision guides appropriate to their course.
