The Science department and pupils are kept busy in lessons throughout the year and with many thoughtfully-integrated visitors or trips that enrich their learning experience. Years 3 and 4 acquire and develop their experimental skills, methodologies and knowledge through a variety of hands-on activities in which they are required to test, measure and experience. Whether it is recording ecology notes at Kew Gardens or being wowed by visiting scientists launching rockets in Vincent Square, we hope that they develop the view that science is both fascinating and fun.
Years 5 - 8 come up to the top floor (which is worth it for the stunning view of the London sky-line alone!) to be taught by specialist Science teachers in one of two modern, fully-equipped laboratories. Using Bunsen burners, testing acids and alkalis, measuring with Newton meters, visiting London zoo and building electrical circuits … so begin their senior scientific careers and there are many wonderful ‘light bulb’ moments! Alongside the continued learning of methodologies and scientific concepts; Year 6 resolve the problem of longitude at the Greenwich Prime Meridian galleries and Planetarium, Year 7 are taught new field studies skills in Dorset and Year 8 extend these skills on the Geography field trip in Cornwall. After all the hard work of preparing for their summer examinations the Year 8 boys are given a spectacular science extravaganza in the hall by a visiting professor.
The Science teachers encourage each boy to develop his abilities in discussion and debate, experience the joy of discovery, hone sophisticated practical experimental skills, become independent in reading and research and see the relation between what we learn in the classroom and everyday life. We hope that these skills and knowledge will equip them well along their chosen pathways in life. Most of all, we hope they are left with curiosity and a desire to know more.
