enquiries@sionschool.org.uk 01903 204063
Our Lady Of Sion

Sixth Form Science

Sixth Form

Science

All three sciences are offered at A Level. 

A Level Science subjects build on GCSE knowledge and also introduce more advanced topics. Experimental skills are developed further, with students carrying out more extended practical work and investigations.

The A Level Science courses provide opportunities for students to develop key skills: 

  • Experimental skills
  • Communication 
  • Mathematical and data analysis 
  • Information Technology
  • Problem Solving
  • Working with others
  • Improving own learning and performance

Final assessment, in all A Level Science subjects, will consist of three written papers.

Practical skills are developed throughout the course and are assessed within the written examinations and by Practical Endorsement. Candidates complete a minimum of 12 practical activities to demonstrate practical competence.

Biology [AQA]

This course provides an opportunity to gain a sound understanding of Biology through the study of biological principles whilst exploring the modern applications of Biology.  It provides an appropriate foundation for further study of Biology or related subjects in Higher Education.  It has also proved to be a stimulating A Level for those wishing to study non-related disciplines at university, such as Law or English.  It can lead to direct entry into employment, especially into the sciences and related sectors.

The course includes:

  • Cells
  • Organisms exchange substances with their environment
  • Genetic information, variation and relationships between organisms
  • Energy transfers in and between organisms
  • Organisms response to changes in their environments
  • Genetics, populations, evolution and ecosystems
  • The control of gene expression

Chemistry [OCR]

The course enable students to gain knowledge and an understanding of Chemistry and gives students the opportunity to develop skills in laboratory procedures and techniques. The study of A Level Chemistry can prepare students to follow a degree course in Chemistry, Environmental Science, Veterinary Medicine, Biochemistry, Biological Sciences, Biomedical Sciences, Medicine and Pharmacy.

The course includes:

  • Development of practical skills in Chemistry
  • Foundations in Chemistry
  • Periodic Table and Energy
  • Core Organic Chemistry
  • Physical Chemistry and Transition Elements
  • Organic Chemistry and Analysis

Physics [OCR]

  • The course will provide a satisfying experience for the student who chooses to take Physics as part of a broad post-16 curriculum.  At the end of the course they should know more of what Physics is about and its place in the world. The course will enable the student to go on to study Physics or an associated course at university; at the same time it will provide an interesting and stimulating experience for the student who does not pursue the subject further.

    The course includes:

    • Development of practical skills in physics
    • Foundations of physics
    • Forces and motion
    • Electrons, waves and photons
    • Newtonian world and Astrophysics
    • Particles and medical Physics

Trips and Enrichment

Sixth Form Science trips include:

  • Yr12 Biology: Marwell Zoo – Conservation
  • Yr12 Chemistry: Southampton University – Master classes

Students are also encouraged to take part in national competitions and teams are entered for the Biology Challenge and the Chemistry and Physics Olympiads. 

In addition, Sixth Form Science students often assist with the organisation and running of the very popular STEM Club.

University Courses and Careers

Sion Science students have gone on to study related courses and pursue careers in wide variety of areas, including:

  • Rocket science
  • Astrophysics research
  • Medicine
  • Veterinary Medicine
  • Engineering
  • Computing & Graphics
Back to Curriculum

A co-educational independent school with a strong ethos, successfully education Boys & Girls from ages 3 – 18