The science department is fully committed in the integration of Business and Enterprise ventures and activities within Science.
The science department has an established reputation for innovation and risk -taking both in the development of new resources for teaching and learning, but also in the introduction of new courses which emphasise the relevance of science in the 21st century, the workplace, and within the global community.
The Business and Enterprise focus is firmly embedded in all that we do, in the schemes of work, in the teaching styles and learning opportunities. Throughout the year a range of skills required for Business and enterprise is being developed, as teachers introduce new teaching strategies and learning opportunities.
It is recognised that virtually every lesson within science has some degree of content related to Business and Enterprise. This is either related directly to the science content, or in the teaching strategy which is used to develop key skills. Therefore, our schemes of work include Business and Enterprise opportunities for all lessons.
The use of ICT is firmly embedded into the schemes of work. The department has increased the provision of ICT resources, hardware and software. This has enabled students and teachers to access resources relevant to applications of science relevant to Business and Enterprise activities. This includes the promotion and development of group discussions, independent learning and teamwork
The department has a strong commitment to share its resources, and to make these resources available to students and teachers, on a 24/7 basis. Dedicated websites have been constructed and developed to support and enhance teaching and learning. Students and teachers can access resources anywhere where they have access to a computer and internet connection. These resources, including online learning facilities, are also available for other schools to access.
We live in a global community. We realise that to develop our students for the modern world we must embrace and utilise modern technology, and use resources such as the internet to gain relevant information, knowledge, and understanding of a range of issues that affect people around the world. This includes the impact of technology and science on local and global economies, businesses, lifestyles, the environment, and different cultures.
(Example) : Curriculum Developments: Applied Science (GCSE)
Applied Science is one of the new curriculum courses. We were one of the first schools in the UK to introduce this new science. The focus is on how science is used by people and organisations
Here are some examples of how a study of these topics enables a focus on Business and Enterprise. In this new course, students provide a Work-Related Report, as part of the coursework portfolio.
|
Topic of Study |
Theme |
Focus |
Outcome |
Notes |
|
Materials and Performance |
Materials in Action |
The building control surveyor |
Work related report |
Invitation to local council |
|
Materials in Action |
The lighting director |
Work related report |
Cross-curricular. Links with drama |
|
|
Materials ion Action |
Sports Performance |
The history of development of sports equipment |
Cross- curricular. Contacts with sports equipment manufacturers. |
|
|
People and organisations |
Why do we need Standards organisations? |
How standards organisations work |
Contact with Oldham local standards officers. |
|
|
Toys to the test |
How are products tested? |
Quality control and safety procedures. |
Experimental investigation to compare strengths of plastics. |
|
|
Mind your skull |
How can we design and construct. a safe helmet? |
Investigation into the properties of different materials |
Practical activities related to standard procedures in industry. |
|
|
Lighting with LEDs |
Comparing technologies. Innovative use of new products. |
Report on the advantages and advantages of LEDs for lighting |
Environmental , Economic and technological issues. |
|
Topic of Study |
Theme |
Focus |
Outcome |
Notes |
|
Materials and Performance |
Materials in Action |
The building control surveyor |
Work related report |
Invitation to local council |
|
Materials in Action |
The lighting director |
Work related report |
Cross-curricular. Links with drama |
|
|
Materials ion Action |
Sports Performance |
The history of development of sports equipment |
Cross- curricular. Contacts with sports equipment manufacturers. |
|
|
People and organisations |
Why do we need Standards organisations? |
How standards organisations work |
Contact with Oldham local standards officers. |
|
|
Toys to the test |
How are products tested? |
Quality control and safety procedures. |
Experimental investigation to compare strengths of plastics. |
|
|
Mind your skull |
How can we design and construct. a safe helmet? |
Investigation into the properties of different materials |
Practical activities related to standard procedures in industry. |
|
|
Lighting with LEDs |
Comparing technologies. Innovative use of new products. |
Report on the advantages and advantages of LEDs for lighting |
Environmental , Economic and technological issues. |