Here in Science we are enthusiastic and passionate about our subject and endeavour to pass this on to our students through exciting experiments and lively discussion. We cater for all types of learner and provide a varied curriculum for Key Stage 3 and follow a variety of pathways matched to the needs of the students, through GCSE.
Alongside lab-based teaching and learning there are opportunities to go on amazing trips and to lectures as well as visits to university labs to get a taste of Science beyond the classroom.
We are also part of the Year 7 Specialist Schools Curriculum, and run two modules as part of the School of Discovery, 'The World Around You' and 'To the Stars!'
Science knows no country, because knowledge belongs to humanity, and is the torch which illuminates the world. Science is the highest personification of the nation because that nation will remain the first which carries the furthest the works of thought and intelligence."
Louis Pasteur
Why Study this Subject?
Science is a core subject because it is so crucial to all of the facets of life. Science leads to many different types of career from pharmacy to engineering and all that falls in between. The skills you acquire by studying science are applicable to a range of careers that fall outside of the obvious science spectrum, for example, sports science calculating the force and trajectory required to take the ultimate free kick!
Topics of Study and Assignments
In Years 7 and 8 you will study a range of topics starting off with how science works, laboratory skills and health and safety in the lab. You will then go on to study: Biology including cells, body systems and reproduction; Chemistry including particles, reactions, acids and alkalis; Physics including forces, sound, light and space.
In Year 9 students begin their AQA GCSE course. There are two top sets and mixed ability classes. All classes are taught the same content and their pathway is decided at the end of Year 10 based on academic performance. This will either be separate sciences (triple), or the trilogy route (formerly double science). All routes will provide students the opportunity for students to continue their science studies at A level. There is no longer coursework and students will sit all exams at the end of Year 11.
The Team
Louise Tomlinson is Head of Science.
Richard Adams has been teaching Science at Varndean for four years, and has a degree in Environmental Science. He also leads on student voice within the school, ensuring students views and opinions are recognised and represented.
Kate Barker - Science Teacher
Callum Brown has a BSc in Biology from Bangor and a PGCE in Science from Chichester. As well as an interest in Science he also greatly enjoys playing hockey and squash along with playing guitar at open mic nights. Lately he has been learning the trumpet which he is enjoying greatly.
Laura Bush - Science Teacher responsible for Key Stage 3.
Gill Checkley - Science Teacher
Dr Emma Chick, responsible for assessment, has a BSc in Neurosciences from Sussex University and a PhD in Neurophysiology from the University of Bristol. She has 12 years' teaching experience in Brighton schools.
Jacob Collins is Lead Professional (data and ICT) and is a physics specialist who attended St John's College, Cambridge University. Before studying for his PGCE at Sussex University he worked as a data analyst.
Gemma Dobby is a Teacher of Science. She had a very successful previous career as a hair stylist but chose to have a change in careers. Gemma started her studies in animal science as a mature student at Plumpton College, before going on to the University of Brighton to complete a BSc in Ecology and then onto the University of Sussex to complete her PGCE.
Sasa Glisovic is a Science Technician and graduated from the University of Brighton with a Certificate in Education, City College with a Further Education National Teacher Training Certificate and City College with a HNC in Engineering.
Hazel Johnson - Senior Science Technician
Sue Pickerill - Science Lead Practitioner
Dr Ben Rogers - Science Teacher
Naomi Wanstall - Science Teacher
Liz Wilson - Lead Professional (Inclusion) and responsible for Key Stage 4.
Events and Activities
Year 9 Science trip exploring forces at Thorpe Park, 29th March 2017.
The Science department also receive visitors from industry professionals and work with local universities.
Keep an eye on the Latest News page for more information on specific events.
Extra-curricular Activities
In Science club students will carry out a range of exciting scientific experiments and have the opportunity to discuss the science behind them.
Lego robots involves building Lego robots using Lego mindstorms technology with an aim towards entering the regional competition. The club is designed to encourage those interested in STEM subjects to think about the challenges facing modern society and come up with innovative ideas to tackle these challenges.
In Astonomy club students have the opportunity to learn all about the universe they live in, including planetary systems, stars and the sun. Students will learn to use telescopes, create satellites and get to enjoy all things astronomy.
Biology revision classes take place on Mondays after school.
Chemistry revision classes take place on Thursdays after school.
Physics revision classes take place on Fridays after school.
RT @VSTeamTeach: @VarndeanScience feel like this? See your science teacher! #makingthegrade Ms Wilson has the best picture! @VarndeanSchool...