Overview 

Combined Science provides students with a broad and balanced understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The course develops scientific knowledge, practical skills, and critical thinking. Students will learn how science explains the world around them and how it applies to real-life situations, preparing them for further study, apprenticeships, or careers in STEM-related fields. 

Curriculum Intent 

The Science curriculum aims to: 

• Develop secure understanding of core scientific concepts across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics 

• Build practical investigation skills and an understanding of the scientific method 

• Encourage curiosity, resilience, and analytical thinking 

• Enable students to apply scientific knowledge to unfamiliar contexts and real-world problems 

• Promote scientific literacy so students can evaluate evidence and make informed decisions 

• Foster independence, teamwork, and problem-solving skills 

 

Curriculum Implementation 

Teaching approach 

• Logical progression from simple to complex concepts  

• Clear links between Biology, Chemistry and Physics concepts 

• Blended approach including dual coding, modelling, and independent application. 

• Regular retrieval practice and spaced revision  

• Integration of required practicals and exam-style questions. 

Sequencing of learning 

• Combined Science course delivered across two years, leading to two GCSE grades (Double Award)  

• Integrated teaching of Biology, Chemistry and Physics  

• Curriculum sequenced to build foundational knowledge first, then apply and extend 

• Regular required practicals embedded throughout topics to develop investigative skills 

Assessment 

• Six written examination papers taken at the end of Year 11 (two each for Biology, Chemistry and Physics) 

• Each paper is 1 hour 10 minutes and worth 60 marks, contributing equally (16.7% each) to the overall grade  

• Linear assessment structure – all content from across the course is assessed in final exams in May/June  

• Two tiers of entry: Foundation (grades 1–1 to 5–5) and Higher (grades 4–4 to 9–9), with students sitting all papers in one tier  

• Practical skills assessed within written exams, with at least 15% of marks linked to practical activities and scientific enquiry  

• Range of question types, including multiple choice, short answer, calculations, data analysis, and extended response questions assessing knowledge, application and evaluation skills 

• Ongoing formative assessments and mock exams take place in Year 10 and 11 to help students to prepare for the final exams.  
   

Curriculum Impact 

Success is measured through: 

• Strong knowledge retention over time  

• Improved examination outcomes in line with national expectations 

• Development of scientific skills and literacy  

• Students’ ability to analyse data, apply mathematical skills, and construct extended written responses in assessments. 

• Confidence in practical and investigative work  

• High levels of student engagement and progression to science at Post 16. 

Curriculum Structure 

Key Stage 4