Our primary aim is to ensure that all students gain knowledge and understanding of science, and that they reach their true potential in this subject.

 

This can only be achieved by

 

(i)      Using effective teaching strategies,

(ii)    Using continuous monitoring and evaluation procedures,

(iii) Responding to the fact that all pupils have individual needs.

 

Students bring different experiences to the classroom, they have different interests, they progress at different rates, and they respond differently to different teaching and learning styles.  Our task is to provide a suitable learning environment in which all pupils, irrespective of ability, gender and cultural background can gain maximum benefit from a study of science.

 

 If we can achieve the maximum possible rate of progression and attainment in science for each student, in the time they are at North Chadderton School, then we can be reasonably satisfied with our teaching strategies.

 

However, this is not our only target.

 

We also aim to promote and develop cross-curricular skills, including ICT and communication skills, and reinforce the aims of the whole-school policies in the development of individuals. Naturally, we hope that all students will enjoy the study of science, and in their study of science they will develop an appreciation the importance of science and technology in science and society,

 

We consider ourselves to be a progressive department, willing to take risks and try out new strategies, use fresh ideas and adopt new procedures and resources. We are committed to the integration of ICT within science lessons. All our teachers have developed high skills in the use of interactive whiteboards. We invest strongly in resources, such as CDs and have developed a range of online support zones for students and teachers.  This allows 24/7 access to support and resources.

 

We also recognise the limitations of the ‘one course fits all’ approach to teaching science. We were fortunate enough to become one of the pilot schools for 21^st Century Science, where a suite of different courses is made available for students of different needs. The recent success of the students was significantly higher than those following a ‘traditional’ science course. It is often real challenge for teachers to break away from ‘safe mode’, and it requires new skills and approaches. However, the prime objective is not for the benefit of teachers, but to raise standards of attainment for all students. This new direction has been shown to motivate the students in lessons, and to relate the study of science to their interests and generate enthusiasm in the new learning opportunities.  Students can relate to the content of the topics placed in a modern context much more easily, and therefore retain interest.