Science at Ysgol Bryn Elian

Introduction to Department

The Science department has seven large laboratories and two smaller ones. From year 7, pupils study Science and gain experience in practical skills as well as scientific theory. The most important things to bring to a Science lesson are an open mind, the willingness to think and the ability to learn from mistakes.


Through school Science, we hope that pupils will build up a repertoire of knowledge and skills that will equip them to understand Science in the media, scientific principles in the careers they aspire to and, for some, the desire to study Science in depth after school and become the trailblazers of the future.


Staffing & Responsibilities

There are 9 Science teachers who have a wide range of experience in the scientific field. We are all Science enthusiasts who love to discuss science and its applications in the wider world.

Staff Member
Departmental Responsibility
Additional Responsibility
Dr. D. Barnett
Head of Department
Teacher of Biology
Teacher of Chemistry
Mr. D. Wilkins
Second in Charge
Teacher of Physics
Mr. D. Barnett
Teacher of Chemistry
Mr. M. Blench
Teacher of Chemistry
Teacher of Medical Science
Ms. E. Clampitt
Teacher of Biology
Mr. T. Lennox
Teacher of Physics
Mrs L. O’Rourke
Teacher of Chemistry
Ms. K. Webb
Teacher of Biology
Teacher of Medical Science

About KS3

Pupils experience Science through a program of study designed to develop scientific skills and engage them in questioning and curiosity about the word around them. They are formally assessed 4 times during a term and awarded levels for skills within the curriculum.


We encourage curiosity and pupils are able to express themselves in a variety of ways. Practical skills are developed at every opportunity and pupils are encouraged to work in groups and use their communication skills in order to develop the teamwork required throughout life.


We expect pupils to have an open mind, be willing to challenge pre-existing ideas, be prepared to learn from their mistakes, show consideration for others opinions and contribute towards class discussion.


About KS4

We offer two courses at GCSE, all are WJEC courses, there is a link to related resources below:


GCSE Double Award Science:

Most students take this course. It is a two-year course, which includes six lessons a week, 2 each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics, taught separately. There are three exams in year 10 as well as a practical exam and three more exams in year 11. The exams are available at foundation and higher tier. The result is two GCSE grades from A*A* to GG.


GCSE Single Award Applied Science:

Some students take this course as a vocational route, they also often do college courses and this course provides a more suitable option..


About KS5

We offer four courses in the sixth form. Information about these courses can be found through the website, indicated below:


AS/A2 Biology

AS/A2 Chemistry

AS/A2 Physics

L3 Certificate/Diploma in Medical Science


A little bit about Careers involving this subject

Studying Science is essential for a wide range of careers in addition to the obvious ones. Some of the careers that require a knowledge and understanding of scientific principles are:


Mechanic

Electrician

Hairdresser

Chef

Nurse/ Midwife

Butcher

Baker

Carpenter


Useful Websites

Bitesize

WJEC - select subject and level for a variety of resources

Seneca Learning

S-cool

Chem Guide

Royal Society of Chemistry

Cyber Physics

Other Information

Revision Guides recommended for GCSE:


For recommended sixth form texts consult staff delivering courses.


For any other enquiries email Dr D Barnett (Head of Science).