Science

Exam Board:

AQA

What will I study on the course:

You will explore key concepts across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics to build scientific understanding and skills.

  • Biology: Cell biology, organisation (e.g., digestive and circulatory systems), infection and response, bioenergetics (photosynthesis/respiration), homeostasis and response, inheritance/variation/evolution, and ecology.
  • Chemistry: Atomic structure and periodic table, bonding/structure/properties, quantitative chemistry, chemical changes, energy changes, rates of reaction, organic chemistry, chemical analysis, chemistry of the atmosphere, and using resources.
  • Physics: Energy, electricity, particle model of matter, atomic structure, forces, waves, magnetism/electromagnetism, and space physics (some topics Higher tier only). The course emphasises practical work (required practicals), applying science to real-world contexts, data analysis, and developing investigative skills. Content is the same for Foundation (grades 1-5) and Higher (grades 4-9) tiers, with Higher including greater depth and complexity.

How is the course assessed:

100% exam-based (linear, all exams at the end of the course): Six papers (two for each science), each 1 hour 15 minutes, 70 marks, approximately 16.7% of the GCSE:

  • Biology Paper 1 and Paper 2
  • Chemistry Paper 1 and Paper 2
  • Physics Paper 1 and Paper 2 Papers include multiple-choice, structured, closed short-answer, and open-response questions. Calculators are allowed on all papers. An equations sheet is provided in exams (including key formulae). Required practicals are assessed through exam questions (no separate practical endorsement). Students take all papers at the same tier (Foundation or Higher).

Post-16 courses:

A Level Biology, Chemistry, Physics, or Environmental Science; Level 3 BTEC in Applied Science, Health & Social Care, or Engineering; apprenticeships in STEM fields (e.g., lab technician, engineering). A good grade (4+ or 5+) in Combined Science is required for most science-related A Levels or further study.

Careers:

Medicine, nursing, engineering (mechanical, electrical, chemical), pharmacy, environmental science, forensics, teaching, research science, biotechnology, veterinary science, data analysis, construction, and many STEM-related roles. Science skills are highly valued in non-STEM fields too, such as finance, law, and technology, for analytical thinking and evidence-based decision-making.

Specific advantages:

The course provides a broad foundation in all three sciences without needing to specialise early, making it flexible and accessible. It includes hands-on practicals to develop real lab skills, supports progression to separate sciences if desired, and aligns with real-world issues like health, environment, and technology. At Discovery Academy, lessons focus on engaging explanations, revision support (e.g., via resources like Kay Science), and building confidence through clear progression from KS3.

How useful it is in the real world:

Extremely useful – scientific literacy helps you understand everyday issues like climate change, health decisions, energy use, and technology advancements. Employers value analytical, problem-solving, and data-handling skills from science across industries (e.g., healthcare, engineering, research, business). It supports informed citizenship, critical evaluation of information (e.g., in news or media), and opens doors to high-demand, well-paid careers in a science-driven world. Strong GCSE Science enhances opportunities for apprenticeships, further education, and lifelong learning in a rapidly changing technological society.

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